Welcome to the post-Western weapons market

Moscow showcased more than 500 products in Egypt as foreign buyers searched for weapons built for real war The second El Alamein International Airshow took place on September 8-10 at El Alamein International Airport in Egypt. The airshow reaffirmed its status as one of the premier military exhibitions in North Africa and the Middle East. Its international prestige was confirmed by the list of participating nations; the organizers succeeded in bringing together fierce rivals – the leading players in the global defense industry from Russia, the US, China, and Europe. The airshow’s target audience included defense officials, military commanders, government delegations, and the business elite. Overall, it attracted over 250 exhibitors from 50 countries. More than 12,000 industry professionals visited the stands and displays. The roar of jet engines shook the skies over the Mediterranean Sea as aerobatic teams from Egypt, the UAE, and Türkiye, as well as renowned Russian aerobatic pilots, performed complex maneuvers and showcased their skills. Meanwhile, on the ground, multibillion-dollar contracts were signed. Why sanctions failed to sideline Russia Russia’s participation was a distinctive feature and highlight of this year’s airshow. Perhaps the largest and most compelling display was mounted by Russian arms exporter Rosoboronexport (part of the Rostec state corporation). In total, Russia showcased over 500 military-grade products at El Alamein. Read more The F-35 was supposed to rule the skies. It can barely outrun its problems The key geopolitical and marketing takeaway from the event was clear: Despite unprecedented sanctions pressure from the West, the Russian defense industry not only maintains its position but also generates huge interest among global players. Foreign delegations lined up at the Russian exhibit. The reason for this intense interest was pragmatic: Russian weaponry has proven its effectiveness in actual high-tech combat scenarios.

The performance characteristics of Western systems are often exaggerated in marketing brochures, while their costs are exorbitantly high; however, Russian equipment has undergone real-world testing against modern reconnaissance, electronic warfare, and air defense systems (including in the zone of Russia’s military operation). Buyers from around the globe – from the Middle East to Latin America – also appreciate the fact that Moscow offers fair contract terms, free from political blackmail or ideological demands. Historical continuity also plays a major role; many so-called ‘Third World’ countries have traditionally relied on Soviet and Russian weaponry and are familiar with it. Consequently, many of these countries are unwilling to trade reliable Russian equipment for pretty ‘toys’ from other manufacturers. Combat experience reshapes Russia’s export arsenal What did Russia showcase at the El Alamein airshow? The star of both the static display and the flying display was the Russian Su-57E fifth-generation multi-role fighter jet. The aerobatic performance by Sukhoi Company chief pilot, Hero of Russia Sergey Bogdan, demonstrated the unsurpassed aerodynamics of modern aviation technology. The aircraft embodies a rich legacy of excellence: Unique aerobatic maneuvers combined with powerful missile and electronic warfare capabilities define the modern Su-57. It carries a new generation of weapon systems – specifically, missiles housed in internal bays. These include air-to-air missiles of various ranges as well as air-to-ground strike systems. Su‑57E. © Sputnik/United Aircraft Corporation The Yak-130M combat-capable trainer is an upgraded version of the Yak-130 jet trainer. The airshow marked the aircraft’s debut in the Middle East. The Yak-130M is equipped with a full-fledged onboard radar and carries an expanded arsena