RIYADH: Saudi Arabia is bolstering its national security by forging new partnerships in unmanned systems and working toward preventing radiological and nuclear risks. Saudi Minister of the National Guard Abdullah bin Bandar bin Abdulaziz orchestrated significant agreements with international and domestic entities during the World Defense Show 2024 in Riyadh, according to the Saudi Press Agency. One notable memorandum of understanding was inked with Elm Technology Co. for Industrial Development and Investment, aiming to foster the domestic production of unmanned aircraft systems and products designed to counteract chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats. In another move, an MoU was established with INTRA Defense Technologies Co., focusing on the localization of unmanned aircraft systems manufacturing. This partnership extends to cooperation in various aspects, including operation, support, training, maintenance, and further development of drones. An additional contract was sealed with the European land-defense association KNDS, ensuring the supply of ammunition with a localization rate of approximately 62 percent, as reported by SPA. Furthermore, two new contracts were forged with Saudi-based firms, including a deal for the maintenance and operation of the Ministry of the National Guard fields and another to ensure the upkeep and management of ground systems simulators in the Kingdom. These strategic agreements and MoUs align with the overarching goal of enhancing the localization of the military industries sector within the Kingdom. Furthermore, they contribute to adapting procurement processes for the National Guard Ministry, thereby fortifying its operational and combat readiness capabilities. Beyond these immediate objectives, these collaborations offer promising avenues for employment for Saudi youth, establish a robust network of services and technical support for military industries, and foster the growth and utilization of local capabilities. Such endeavors are integral to the broader strategy of building a resilient and sustainable military industries sector within the Kingdom. Saudi Arabia showcased its most recent innovations at the second World Defense Show. The Hawk T-165 jet was the latest product, with contributions from 25 local companies producing 3,114 parts. SPA reported that aircraft assembly in the Kingdom serves as the core for advancing the domestic defense industry, aligning with the objectives outlined in Saudi Vision 2030.