China's defense companies out in full force at UAE's IDEX: What to know
China sent 59 defense and technology companies to the International Defense Exhibition and Conference and the Naval Defense and Maritime Security Exhibition in Abu Dhabi this week.
Chinese defense and technology companies are out in full force this week at the United Arab Emirates International Defense Exhibition and Conference in Abu Dhabi.
China has sent 59 defense and technology companies to the IDEX and the Naval Defense and Maritime Security Exhibition (NAVDEX 2025), which runs Feb. 17-21. Among the Chinese firms participating are Hubei Jiuzhiyang Infrared System Co., Shanghai Terjin Radio Technology Co., Norinco (China North Industries Corp.) and CATIC (China National Aero-Technology Import & Export Corporation), showcasing communications equipment, drones, radar systems and other defense technologies.
Among the technology on display is AVIC’s J-35A Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft, according to Global Defense Insight. Chinese anti-drone technology manufacturer AWP stated on its website that it will debut its latest anti-drone technology at IDEX.
China's state-owned defense contractor, NORINCO, showcased the SH-16A self-propelled howitzer at the IDEX 2025 🇨🇳🇦🇪#IDEX2025
— Global Defense Insight (@Defense_Talks) February 17, 2025
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The weeklong event has seen five military contracts awarded. Officials from the Tawazun Council, an independent government body overseeing the UAE’s defense sector, announced that the Emirati armed forces awarded three contracts worth 5.57 billion dirhams ($1.52 billion) to local firms. Meanwhile, international companies secured two deals totaling 213 million dirhams ($58 million).
