PHOTO: REUTERS/FileA major defence expo was kicked off in the United Arab Emirates on Monday with Russian firms participating in the maritime section despite Western pressure on Gulf states to help isolate Moscow and a strong showing by Israeli companies. Russian firms, including Kalashnikov and Rosoboronexport, displayed assault rifles, missiles and drones at the Naval Defence & Maritime Security Exhibition (NAVDEX), part of the biennial International Defence Exhibition (IDEX) event. Men in traditional Emirati garb known as a thobe, as well as military-uniformed men from India, Pakistan and other states, were seen engaging with Russian firms' delegates. Many arms-producing nations vie for influence and contracts from wealthy Gulf Arab countries, especially the UAE and Saudi Arabia, which have moved to diversify their defence partners and want to develop their own industries. Israeli firms had a large presence at IDEX, including Iron Dome anti-missile system-maker Rafael.

Source: The Express Tribune February 22, 2023 01:56 UTC