SAMI Highlights Innovations As Platinum Sponsor At First Aerospace Connect Forum In Jeddah

The Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI), a key player in the national defense and security sector, recently participated as the Platinum Sponsor at the inaugural Aerospace Connect Forum. This event took place in Jeddah from February 24 to 25, 2025. Organised by the National Industrial Development Center and co-hosted by the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), it was held under the patronage of Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Bandar Alkhorayef.

During the forum, SAMI showcased its significant contributions to aerospace technology localisation, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030. The event served as a platform for fostering international collaboration and investment to bolster Saudi Arabia's defense and security capabilities. SAMI highlighted its aerospace divisions, including subsidiaries like SAMI Alsalam Aerospace Industries and SAMI Figeac Aero Manufacturing.

SAMI Figeac Aero presented cutting-edge aerospace innovations at their pavilion. These included lightweight metal components for aircraft structures such as frames, floor beams, wing ribs, and fuselage panels. Additionally, they displayed F-15SA pylons designed for mounting external equipment like weapons and fuel tanks beneath aircraft wings. These are manufactured at SAMI Alsalam Aerospace Industries’ facilities.

Experts from SAMI's divisions engaged in a panel discussion titled "Challenges and Opportunities in Saudi Aerospace and Aviation." They discussed efforts to enhance local manufacturing capabilities within the aerospace sector while identifying growth opportunities. This dialogue underscored SAMI's commitment to advancing technological innovation in line with national goals.

On the sidelines of the forum, Deputy Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources for Industrial Affairs Eng. Khalil bin Ibrahim bin Salamah visited SAMI facilities alongside Chief Executive Officer Eng. Thamer Almuhid. The delegation reviewed progress in advanced manufacturing technologies at SAMI Aerospace Mechanics and SAMI Figeac Aero Manufacturing.

This visit reinforced Saudi Arabia’s dedication to localising 50 percent of its military spending by 2030. By focusing on industrial capabilities in aerospace, the Kingdom aims to strengthen its position within the global defense industry while supporting economic diversification efforts.

The Aerospace Connect Forum played a pivotal role in promoting innovation within Saudi Arabia’s aerospace sector. Through events like these, SAMI continues to drive forward initiatives that align with national objectives, ensuring sustainable growth and development across various industries.

With inputs from SPA