The move is part of Rosoboronexport’s efforts to expand its presence on the continent, the arms export agency has said
Russia has a large presence at Africa’s biggest defense and aerospace event, with arms export agency Rosoboronexport displaying over 250 items of military, dual-use, and civilian equipment, local media reported on Wednesday.
This year’s Africa Aerospace and Defense (AAD) expo, which is the 12th edition, opened on Wednesday in South Africa and will run until Sunday. According to the organizers, more than 300 companies from various countries, including BRICS states China and Brazil, are participating in the event, held once every two years.
The US, a key regular participant, had planned to take part in the AAD but later withdrew over an alleged refusal by Pretoria’s defense department to confirm the status of a decades-old military agreement.
READ MORE: Russia expanding African defense partnerships
In a press release on Monday, Rosoboronexport announced it will showcase advanced weapon systems, including Typhoon-K, ZA-SpN Titan, 3-STS Akhmat, Spartak, and Tiger mine-resistant ambush-protected (MRAP) vehicles, as well as upgraded Linza protected field ambulances. Modern Russian military transport and combat aircraft and helicopters, as well as the Yak-130 combat trainer, the Orion-E reconnaissance/strike UAV, the Orlan-10E and Orlan-30 reconnaissance UAV systems, the S-350 Skat UAV, and the Kub-E loitering munition, are also featuring.
Explore Hangar 1 at #AAD2024!
What you’ll find: SANDF, SAPS, Damen, Russian Pavilion, China Pavilion, and much more. 🌍🚔✈️#AAD2024 #AerospaceAndDefence #Defence #Aviation pic.twitter.com/RtUbkEr9TH