World Defence Show 2026: India Highlights ‘Make in India’ Vision in Saudi Arabia

India highlighted its expanding indigenous defence capabilities at the World Defence Show (WDS) 2026 in Riyadh, as Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth led a high-level delegation and inaugurated the country’s first-ever India Pavilion at the prestigious global event.

Joining international dignitaries at the opening ceremony, Seth unveiled the pavilion, which showcased India’s manufacturing strength through Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) and leading private sector companies. According to an official release by the Ministry of Defence, the pavilion reflected India’s growing role in the global defence supply chain.

During his visit, the Minister also toured exhibition areas of Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI) and the Saudi Ministry of Defence to review their latest indigenous technological advancements.

As part of efforts to deepen bilateral cooperation, Seth held discussions with Khaled bin Hussein Al-Biyari, Assistant Minister of Defence for Executive Affairs of Saudi Arabia, on February 8 and 9. The talks focused on enhancing engagement and collaboration between the armed forces of both countries.

He also met Faleh bin Abdullah Al-Sulaiman, Governor of the Saudi Arabian General Authority for Defence Development (GADD), and highlighted India’s emergence as a global defence export hub. During the interaction, he invited GADD officials to visit India’s research and development facilities to explore opportunities for joint development of defence technologies.

The Minister further met Ahmed bin Abdulaziz Al-Ohali, Governor of the General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI), where discussions centred on strategic cooperation and strengthening the defence supply chain ecosystem. He also proposed a visit by a joint GAMI-led delegation to India to gain first-hand exposure to the country’s defence capabilities.

Addressing heads of Indian and Saudi defence companies at an event hosted by the Indian Embassy, Seth underlined the importance of bilateral collaboration to achieve self-reliance in defence manufacturing. He reiterated India’s commitment to global partnerships under the “Make in India, Make for the World” vision.

He emphasised that India remains focused on building sustainable defence partnerships that support both domestic requirements and international demand.

The Ministry’s release noted that the Minister also visited Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of the Saudi state, highlighting the cultural dimension of the visit.

Later, addressing members of the Indian diaspora at the Embassy, Seth highlighted India’s progress under Prime Minister Narendra Modi in areas such as women’s empowerment, healthcare, and digital literacy. He advocated a “‘Nation First’ approach” and praised embassy officials for their continued support to the Indian community in Saudi Arabia.

(With inputs from ANI)