Saudi Gazette report

RIYADH — Minister of the Saudi National Guard Prince Abdullah Bin Bandar initiated a series of strategic contracts and memoranda of understanding (MoUs) with leading international and domestic companies.

These agreements, signed during the World Defense Show (WDS) 2024 in Riyadh, are aimed at bolstering the Kingdom's military industry sector through localization efforts.

One of the key MoUs signed by the minister was with Elm Technology Company for Industrial Development and Investment, focusing on the domestic production of unmanned aircraft systems and technologies for combating chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats.

Another significant agreement was made with INTRA Defense Technologies Company, covering the localization of unmanned aircraft systems industry and collaboration in areas such as operation, support, training, maintenance, and drone development.

In addition to these partnerships, a crucial contract was signed with the European land-defense consortium KNDS for the supply of ammunition, showcasing an impressive industrial participation rate of approximately 62% for its localization.

The minister also inked deals with Saudi-based companies aimed at localizing the maintenance and operation services for the National Guard's fields and ground systems simulators.

These endeavors are part of Saudi Arabia's broader strategy to enhance the localization of its military industries, aiming to meet the operational and combat readiness needs of the Ministry of the National Guard.