Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, the brainchild of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, is a bold blueprint aimed at modernizing the Kingdom on multiple fronts. Among its numerous ambitious goals, one particularly stands out: the aim to build up the nation’s defense industrial capability to meet at least half of its own defense needs within a few years. This objective is not only about self-reliance but also about transforming Saudi Arabia into a major player in global defense production. As the Middle East continues to experience geopolitical tensions, achieving these goals could dramatically alter the region’s trade and defense landscape.

The feasibility of such a rapid and comprehensive build-up in defense production is indeed a topic of considerable debate. However, the Kingdom’s determined approach, coupled with its significant need for strategic deterrence and unwavering dedication, suggests a high probability of success.

Saudi Arabia’s push towards self-sufficiency in defense production is deeply intertwined with its strategic need for regional stability. As a key player in the Middle East, the Kingdom faces persistent threats and requires a robust defense capability to deter potential aggressors. Historically, Saudi Arabia has relied heavily on international partners for its defense needs, becoming one of the world’s top military spenders. However, this dependency brings its own set of challenges, particularly concerning the reliability and timeliness of foreign supplies.

The Middle East’s volatile geopolitical landscape necessitates that Saudi Arabia has........

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