Saudi Arabia has taken a big step in the defense sector during the World Defense Show 2026 going on in Riyadh. Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI) has introduced a new armored vehicle program named ‘HEET’. The special thing is that it has been completely designed in Saudi Arabia and it will also be manufactured within the Kingdom. This is being considered a major success in the direction of further strengthening the Saudi Arabian army.
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How are these new cars?
SAMI company has informed that under this program different types of vehicles will be made for the army. This includes armored vehicles with 4×4, 6×6 and 8×8 wheels. The HEET 8×8 model is equipped with a large 105mm weapon, which will be useful in heavy security operations.
Apart from this, the small 4×4 model has been specially designed for border security and monitoring. The design of these vehicles is such that the driver and commander sitting in them have a clear view of the front and sides. The company has not yet disclosed their prices, but it is being said that they will be affordable compared to foreign vehicles.
Factory will be built in Riyadh itself
These armored vehicles will be produced at the SAMI Land Industrial Complex located in Riyadh. The site is spread over 82,000 square meters and is believed to be the largest land defense factory in the Middle East. Here vehicles will be made using the latest technology and machines.
According to the report, this factory has the capacity to manufacture about 1,500 military vehicles every year. This step is part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which mandates that 50% of the money spent on the military be used within the country and the goods be manufactured here. This will also provide employment to local people and small industries will be given an opportunity to work.