Russia to display new rocket artillery and APCs in Saudi Arabia

Russian state defense conglomerate Rostec confirmed it will showcase a range of advanced military systems at the 2026 World Defense Show in Saudi Arabia.

The exhibition includes the BTR-22 armored personnel carrier, the Ballista remote-controlled combat module, the Planshet-A/Atlet artillery fire control system, the Volk (Wolf) armored vehicle and the 300 mm Sarma multiple launch rocket system (9A52-4) mounted on a KAMAZ-63501 chassis. The event will take place in Riyadh, where Saudi Arabia is hosting one of the Middle East’s largest defense exhibitions.

The systems selected for exhibition reflect Russia’s current export portfolio in armored vehicles, remote weapons stations and digital fire control technologies.

The BTR-22 is a modernized armored personnel carrier based on the BTR-80 family, but redesigned with a front-mounted engine compartment. This configuration improves crew survivability and allows a rear troop exit, aligning the layout with newer Western and Asian armored vehicle designs. The vehicle is intended for infantry transport, patrol missions and battlefield mobility under fire.

Rostec will also present the Ballista remote-controlled combat module, a remotely controlled weapon station designed for armored vehicles and fixed positions. The module allows operators to engage targets from the vehicle using stabilized sensors and fire control systems, reducing crew exposure during combat operations.

Another key system on display is the Planshet-A/Atlet artillery fire control system, a digital command tool used to coordinate artillery units, calculate firing data and transmit target information in real time. The system is designed to shorten response times between detection and engagement, allowing artillery units to operate with improved coordination.

As part of the exhibition, the Sarma 300mm multiple rocket system will also be displayed. The 9A52-4 launch vehicle is mounted on a KAMAZ-63501 truck chassis and is designed to fire heavy-caliber missiles at long range. The system is positioned by Russia as a mobile alternative to older tracked launchers and U.S.-made HIMARS, providing ground mobility and faster redeployment of rocket artillery units.

The World Defense Show is one of the few global trade fairs where Russian defense companies continue to showcase export equipment alongside Western, Asian and regional manufacturers. Rostec has used the event in recent years to engage potential customers from the Middle East, Africa and Asia, despite restrictions applicable to other international locations.