RIYADH: The Saudi Arabia Defense Ministry has said that it had signed 17 contracts and 2 memoranda of understanding (MoUs) with both local and international companies during the World Defense Show 2024 held in Riyadh, reported the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported.
These contracts aim to bolster the military readiness of the Armed Forces, enhance their capabilities, and improve combat efficiency. They also align with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to localize over half of military equipment and services spending.
Assistant Minister of Defense for Executive Affairs, Dr. Khalid bin Hussein Al-Bayari, alongside Saudi Arabian Airlines Corporation Director General, Ibrahim Al-Omar, witnessed the signing of two contracts for the Air Force between the Ministry of Defense and PrivatAir Saudi Arabia (PASA).
The General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI), represented by Deputy Governor Mohammed bin Saleh Al-Athel, signed six industrial participation contracts with both national and international companies. Among these, contracts with South Korean company LIG Nex1 and Raytheon Technologies of Saudi Arabia were notable, focusing on the localization of advanced air defense systems manufacturing and development.
Additionally, contracts were inked with SAMI Aerospace and Maintenance Services Limited, SAMI LAND Systems, SAAB Saudi Arabia, and Haji Husein Ali Reza & Co. Ltd, targeting various military branches.
Saudi Arabia Also Sings MoUs
The Ministry of Defense also signed MoUs with Lockheed Martin and Raytheon Defense Company to address future requirements related to air defense systems.
Furthermore, contracts with Saudi Arabian Thales International, Saudi Arabian Military Industries, Big Blue Pearl Company, and Modern Technology Company were signed to bolster military capabilities and technological advancements across different sectors.
A contract with the Saudi Information Technology Company (SITE) for the General Administration of Information Technology at the Ministry’s Agency for Excellence Services was also finalized, underlining the ministry’s commitment to modernizing its infrastructure and services.
