China's Presence at World Defense Show 2026 Grows as Global Participation Reaches New Heights.

China is set to play a pivotal role at the upcoming World Defense Show (WDS) 2026, scheduled to be held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from February 8-12. With over 100 Chinese defense companies confirmed to participate, the event underscores the remarkable international interest in showcasing the future of defense technologies. The announcement, made at Airshow China in Zhuhai, signifies a broader trend of defense sector globalization, with Chinese companies eager to engage in the third edition of this increasingly influential event.
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HE Ahmad Abdulaziz Al-Ohali Governor of GAMI and Mansour Al-Babtain VP Commercial Partnerships & Liaison WDS at Zhuhai Air Show. (Picture source: World Defense Show)

WDS 2026 has witnessed substantial growth since its inception, with exhibition space expanding by an impressive 54 percent compared to its 2022 edition, more than doubling in size. The show has rapidly become one of the defense industry’s most anticipated platforms, drawing participation from leading global companies. More than half of the exhibition space for WDS 2026 has already been reserved, signaling the strong international demand. China’s engagement is particularly notable, with its pavilion filling 88 percent of its allocated space, making it the second-largest national presence after the host country, Saudi Arabia.

The strategic involvement of Chinese defense companies was highlighted at the 15th Airshow China, where WDS representatives engaged with prospective exhibitors. The rapid booking of exhibition space illustrates WDS’s growing stature as a key event for global defense companies. The enthusiasm shown by Chinese companies, particularly following their significant footprint at WDS 2024—where they accounted for 9 percent of total attendance—demonstrates the industry’s keen interest in penetrating new markets and showcasing advanced capabilities.

China’s expanded participation will introduce a wide range of cutting-edge defense technologies, reinforcing its position as a leader in the industry. WDS 2026 is expected to highlight numerous breakthroughs in defense innovation, offering a collaborative platform for industry leaders, decision-makers, and innovators from around the world. As the global defense landscape continues to evolve, WDS serves as a vital arena for showcasing the latest advancements and fostering international partnerships.