Traditionally when increased regional tensions and high oil prices coincide, defense spending in the Middle East and North Africa tends to see robust growth.
While Riyadh Air is planning an initial narrowbody order with Boeing or Airbus, COO Peter Bellew says Comac will become "a real force to be reckoned with.”
Riyadh announced a 3.9% rise for defense spending in fiscal 2024. Three factors likely dictate whether another sizable boost to spending materializes this year.
China Eastern will become the first Chinese airline offering regular scheduled flights to Saudi Arabia, while China Southern is adding a second route to Iran.
Saudi Arabia will acquire 10 batteries of the KM-SAM Block II medium-range air defense system in a deal worth $3.2 billion, the South Korean Defense Ministry told media.
British anti-drone technology development house MARSS is hoping to begin delivering its distinctive Interceptor air vehicle to customers later this year.
The RSAF is considering acquiring intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance and communications satellites as it seeks to expand into space operations.
Saudi officials say a Patriot battery shot down six Houthi ballistic missiles in 48 sec. in an illustration of the rapid advancements the country's armed forces have made.
After more than seven years without regular scheduled air service between Iran and Saudi Arabia, discussions are set to start on reestablishing connectivity.
