moscow at the World Defense Show 2026: Export Ambitions Undermined by War and Sanctions

On February 8–12, Riyadh will host the World Defense Show 2026 – an international defense exhibition where participants will discuss technological advances in the air, land, sea, space, and cyber domains. The event organizer, the Saudi Arabian General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI), says 925 companies from 80 countries will be there. Against this backdground, russia’s presence is more of an attempt to stay in the spotlight than a sign of a comeback.

moscow has already delivered samples of weapons and military equipment to Saudi Arabia, including the btr-22, the “ballista” combat module, and the “planchet-a” artillery fire control automation system on the “atlet” chassis. The centerpiece of the “rosoboronexport” exhibition of the “rostec” state corporation will be the premiere of the “Sarma” multiple launch rocket system based on the kamaz-63501 with a launcher for six 300-mm rockets.

The decision to showcase “sarma” in Riyadh underscores russia’s desire to gain a foothold in Middle Eastern markets, where demand is focused on relatively inexpensive systems capable of operating in harsh climatic conditions. russia is trying to present itself as an alternative to Western and Asian manufacturers, including the American HIMARS, but this strategy is becoming less and less convincing.

The rf’s participation in the World Defense Show 2026 is taking place amid sanctions-induced isolation and serious reputational damage. The kremlin relies on promoting mass-produced and inexpensive systems, using the war against Ukraine as supposed proof of their combat effectiveness. However, large-scale losses of equipment and systemic problems with its quality negate this argument and undermine the confidence of potential buyers. Under these circumstances, russian arms exports will increasingly rely on price concessions, barter, and technology transfers – signs that russia is no longer able to maintain its status as a leading player in the global arms market.