Bahrain International Defense Exhibition Kicks off

Gulf

October 29th, 8:59am

Manama - Asharq Al-Awsat

BIDEC 2019 kicks off in Bahrain. (BNA)

The Bahrain International Defense Exhibition and Conference (BIDEC) 2019 kicked off on Monday, with the participation of 200 companies from 25 countries specialized in military industries. Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister, stressed that his country seeks to strengthen the role of the military and defense sectors through various technological means. He added that the country’s economy helps contribute to the development of the military and defense sectors in line with Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030, serve the goals of sustainable growth and achieve security and stability in the region. The exhibition showcases the most recent defense weapons. Various types of drones are presented in addition to military equipment, telecommunication devices and machine guns. The conference is also an opportunity for the exchange of experiences and expertise by the participating countries in their drive to counter attempts to deal vigorously with cyber hacking and attacks on communications structures, networks, databases and information. Saudi Arabia is taking part in the exhibition with a large pavilion where the General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI) is displaying its newest drones. The light-weight aircraft can fly up to 16,500 feet for some eight hours and are equipped with day and night cameras. GAMI affirmed its keenness to be present at international exhibitions in order to highlight Saudi military industries and develop them into global leaders. Bahrain is seeking through BIDEC to use military technology to serve security, stability and development and localize military and defense capabilities. The exhibition consists of 170 pavilions with platforms for the participating countries such as the US, India, Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

from Asharq AL-awsat https://aawsat.com/english/home/article/1966521/bahrain-international-defense-exhibition-kicks