WASHINGTON — Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Defense signed eight memorandums of understanding (MoUs) on Wednesday with leading American companies specializing in defense and advanced technologies, during the U.S.–Saudi Investment Forum in Washington. The agreements were signed by Assistant Minister of Defense for Executive Affairs Dr. Khalid Al-Bayari, in the presence of several CEOs and chairpersons of U.S. defense firms. Also attending were Khalid AlJawini, Director General of the General Directorate for Defense Procurement and Armament, along with representatives of the American companies. The MoUs span advanced sectors including aircraft manufacturing, cybersecurity, intelligence, monitoring and surveillance systems, and artificial intelligence. According to the ministry, these initiatives aim to enhance the operational readiness and combat capabilities of the Saudi armed forces. A central component of the agreements is localization, through expanding domestic defense manufacturing, transferring advanced technologies, exchanging expertise, and developing national talent. The initiatives align with the goals of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 to strengthen the Kingdom's defense ecosystem and build a sustainable local industry. The partnerships also highlight the longstanding strategic relationship between Saudi Arabia and the United States.
