Saudi defense localization drive accelerates with SAMI subsidiary launches
New land, autonomous, and vehicle programs highlight Riyadh’s push to localize military spending under Vision 2030
RIYADH, Saudi Arabia (MNTV) — Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI) has unveiled a series of new subsidiaries and industrial initiatives at the World Defense Show in Riyadh, underscoring its strategy to localize more than 50 percent of the Kingdom’s defense expenditure by 2030.
Under the patronage of Defense Minister and SAMI Chairman Prince Khalid bin Salman, the company announced the launch of SAMI Land Co., SAMI Autonomous Co., the SAMI Land Industrial Complex, and the HEET indigenous vehicle program, expanding its footprint across land systems and emerging defense technologies.
SAMI officials said land systems represent a priority domain, with plans to provide locally based maintenance, repair, and overhaul services and develop indigenous capabilities aligned with operational needs of Saudi land and security forces.
Saudi Arabia’s General Authority for Military Industries reported that military spending localization reached 24.89 percent by the end of 2024, reflecting steady progress toward the 2030 target.
The SAMI Land initiative includes a one million square meter industrial site and an advanced manufacturing facility using Industry 4.0 technologies, developed in partnership with Zamil Industrial.
The company also introduced the HEET fire-support vehicle program, including an 8×8 platform equipped with a 105 mm turret, designed and engineered domestically with full intellectual property ownership retained by SAMI.
SAMI also launched SAMI Autonomous Co., focused on the design, manufacturing, and lifecycle support of autonomous defense systems.
In addition, the company introduced “Rukun,” a digital local-content and supplier engagement platform aimed at integrating small and medium-sized enterprises into the defense supply chain.
During the event, SAMI signed more than a dozen memoranda of understanding with local and international partners, with further agreements expected.
The company showcased more than 60 land-based products at its pavilion, marking its largest participation to date.
Founded in 2017 under the Public Investment Fund, SAMI is undergoing organizational transformation with new leadership and management structures.
The company aims to rank among the world’s top 25 defense firms by 2030, positioning itself as a central pillar of Saudi Arabia’s expanding defense industrial ecosystem.
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