DSEI 2025: World Defense Show 2026 focuses on defense integration and industry transformation.

At DSEI 2025 in London, Andrew Pearcey, Chief Executive Officer of the World Defense Show (WDS), outlined the vision and main objectives of the third edition of the exhibition, scheduled to take place in Riyadh from 8 to 12 February 2026. Held under the patronage of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and organized by the General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI), the event has been designed as a platform for dialogue and cooperation in the global defense sector.
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Pearcey emphasized that the central theme, The Future of Defense Integration, reflects the growing importance of interoperability across the five defense domains: land, air, sea, space, and security. The 2026 edition will focus on presenting how advanced solutions can be integrated across these domains, while supporting industry players in adapting to this development.

The scale of the upcoming edition highlights the rising demand from industry and governments. Already 96% of the available space has been reserved, bringing the total exhibition area to 273,000 square meters, representing a 58% increase compared with the inaugural edition in 2022. Around 925 exhibitors from 80 countries are expected, compared with 773 in 2024. This growth is also visible in the British presence, which will expand by 15% compared with the last edition. Confirmed companies include BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce, Draken, Systematic, and Rheinmetall UK.

To address new requirements, WDS 2026 will introduce several dedicated areas. The Future Defense Lab will showcase emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, robotics, quantum applications, cybersecurity, space technologies, and advanced materials. It will also host the Investor Program, connecting investors with exhibitors to accelerate the development of new defense solutions. Alongside this, an Unmanned Systems Zone will highlight the growing role of unmanned technologies, while the Naval Zone will present the latest developments in maritime systems.

Pearcey underlined that WDS aims to provide more than an exhibition of equipment. It is intended as a platform for knowledge sharing, professional exchanges, and building partnerships across the defense ecosystem. Demonstrations on land, sea, and air, combined with a program of conferences and discussions, will provide opportunities for participants to access the latest insights and developments in the field.

Through a clear thematic focus on integration, a significant expansion in scale, the introduction of new areas dedicated to innovation, and its role as a global meeting point for governments, companies, and investors, the 2026 edition is expected to play a key role in shaping industry discussions. With registration for trade visitors now open, preparations are underway for an event that aims to bring together a wide range of defense stakeholders and provide a comprehensive overview of current and future capabilities.