Rostec Showcases Advanced Defence Technologies At Dubai Airshow 2023 With New Systems And Aircraft

Sergey Chemezov, CEO of Russia's Rostec State Corporation, highlighted the significance of the Dubai Airshow as a global stage for defence and aerospace innovations. He emphasised Rostec's eagerness to participate due to the exhibition's potential to engage international partners and showcase advanced Russian technologies to specialists and decision-makers.

Chemezov mentioned that the MC-21 passenger aircraft had its first foreign demonstration in Dubai while still under international development. Now fully produced in Russia, it is undergoing certification trials before large-scale production begins. This year’s airshow will feature premières like the upgraded Yak-130 jet trainer and combat aircraft, along with the Ansat light multipurpose helicopter equipped with VK-650 engines.

The fifth-generation Su-57 fighter jet stands out among the technologies on display. Chemezov noted its proven capabilities in real combat, especially regarding stealth and firepower. The aircraft has garnered interest at airshows in China and India before arriving in the UAE for flight demonstrations by test pilot Sergey Bogdan.

Rostec is showcasing numerous models from leading companies such as United Aircraft Corporation and Russian Helicopters. The lineup includes the Ka-52 attack helicopter, Il-76 heavy transport aircraft, Ka-32 firefighting helicopter, and Pantsir-SMD-E air defence system. The Ka-52 will also perform aerial displays, demonstrating its manoeuvrability proven in demanding combat missions.

The Middle East plays a crucial role for Rosoboronexport, accounting for nearly half of its annual contracts. Regional partners show strong interest in Russian air defence systems, aircraft, helicopters, armoured vehicles, anti-tank systems, UAVs, anti-UAV systems, and simulators. Cooperation extends beyond equipment supply to technology transfer and local production lines for military and civilian products.

Chemezov stressed that exporting advanced Russian technologies is vital for Russia's economy and international standing. Russian weapons are known globally for quality and reliability. Rostec includes Rosoboronexport, Russia’s sole authorised intermediary for military exports. Over 25 years, it has signed over 30,000 contracts worth more than $230 billion.

Strategic Developments

This year, Rostec adopted a new strategy through 2036 to maintain Russia's position as the second-largest arms exporter. Chemezov stated that Russia's defence-industrial production pace meets government orders while allowing increased export volumes. He highlighted that Russian equipment is used in over 120 countries worldwide.

Russian products are valued for their reliability and efficiency without hidden backdoors or remote shutdown capabilities. Their battlefield-proven performance is crucial for Middle Eastern partners who prioritise operationally validated systems. "All Russian products presented at the exhibition in the Emirates are not promotional samples but an actual response to the latest threats and realities," he said.

Pantsir-SMD-E Upgrades

The Pantsir-SMD-E system has seen significant upgrades recently to counter UAV threats effectively. Its guns were removed to accommodate more launchers, allowing it to carry up to 48 mini-missiles capable of engaging various aerial targets like drones. This system attracted attention when first unveiled at IDEX 2025 in the UAE.

Chemezov noted that many Russian systems — including Pantsir, Kornet, Solntsepyok, and various armoured vehicles — are highly regarded across the Middle East for their reliability and adaptability to regional conditions.

With inputs from WAM