Saudi Arabia Allocates SAR 664 Million to Boost Local Defense Industries
The General Authority for Defense Development and Saudi Arabia Military Industries (SAMI) launched two programs, investing SAR 664 million over four years. SAMI will form alliances with national development centers and Saudi universities to meet the defense and security entities’ requirements.
Aim for Localizing Defense Industries
These programs aim to enhance national capabilities in defense development and fortify the localization of defense industries in the kingdom. Dr. Falih bin Abdullah Al-Suleiman, Governor of the General Authority for Defense Development, said that these programs are the first batch to support the Saudi defense development sector. Further programs to stimulate the sector are to follow.
SAMI’s Vision for Future Impact
SAMI’s CEO, Engineer Walid bin Abdulmajeed Abu Khaled, assured that these programs will bear fruit within four years, highlighting the company’s pivotal role in localizing defense industries. The goal aligns with the leadership’s aspirations to localize 50% of the kingdom’s defense expenditure by 2030.
Investing in Surveillance and Reconnaissance Systems Development
Dr. Hatim bin Mohammad Bahiri, Assistant Governor for Technology and System Planning, emphasized investing in national capabilities to develop software-defined communication systems, surveillance and reconnaissance systems, and counteracting drones.
He pointed out that SAMI will develop these systems in collaboration with universities and national development centers. He added that laboratories and workshops will be established to support development operations in related technologies. The initiative will also present grants for quality research related to targeted fields, under direct supervision and financing from the authority.
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