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China spotlights drones at Saudi defence show to lure Middle Eastern buyers as conflicts in Gaza and Red Sea escalate
- Beijing’s weapons makers show off UAVs at arms exhibition in Riyadh as demand for unmanned combat vehicles grows in Middle East
- Chinese drones are easier to buy than American equivalents because of US sales restrictions, making them attractive to customers in region
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Seong Hyeon Choiin Riyadh
Drones took centre stage as Chinese arms contractors attempted to lure buyers at a defence exhibition in the Middle East amid escalating conflict in Gaza and the Red Sea.
Saudi Arabia hosted the second World Defence Show (WDS) in Riyadh from February 4 to 8, showcasing weapons and military equipment from 773 exhibitors representing more than 75 countries. More than 36 Chinese arms contractors and other companies took part in the event.
One of the highlights of the Chinese pavilion was a display of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) from drone manufacturers that have made deals with Middle Eastern countries.
Beijing’s state-run firms displayed more than 30 types of UAVs in the pavilion, including a Wing Loong-2 from the Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group with the Saudi flag printed on its tail wing.
The Wing Loong-2, first introduced in 2017, can carry 480kg (1,058lbs) of weapons for up to 32 hours.
Saudi Arabia has operated the model since 2017, when it bought 300 Chinese UAVs. The drone was reportedly used in the Yemeni civil war against the Houthi militia.
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