Sergey Chemezov, the CEO of the Russian company Rostec, stated that the Dubai Airshow serves as a prestigious international platform to showcase the latest advancements in defense and aerospace industries globally. He emphasized the organization’s commitment to participating in the event, as it offers a unique opportunity to engage with global partners and present advanced Russian technologies to a wide audience of experts and decision-makers.
In comments made to the Emirates News Agency, Chemezov noted that in previous editions, Dubai was the venue for the first overseas presentation of the MC-21 aircraft, which was under development through international cooperation and is now produced entirely in Russia, undergoing certification tests in preparation for mass production.
He added that this year’s show features several first-time presentations of new systems, including the upgraded Yak-130 aircraft designed for training and combat purposes, the multi-role light helicopter “Ansat” equipped with Russian VK-650 engines, and the advanced fifth-generation fighter “Su-57”.
Chemezov pointed out that the “Su-57” is one of the key technologies being showcased by Rostec in Dubai, affirming its proven capabilities under combat conditions, particularly in terms of stealth and firepower.
He highlighted that the fighter jet has garnered significant interest during its displays in China and India before arriving in the UAE, featuring aerial demonstrations led by test pilot Sergey Bogdan.
Furthermore, Rostec is presenting “dozens of models” from its subsidiaries at the Dubai Airshow 2025, including products from the United Aircraft Corporation, United Engine Corporation, Russian Helicopters, and various high-precision systems.
The showcased equipment includes the “Ka-52” attack helicopter, the developed heavy transport aircraft “Il-76”, the fire-fighting helicopter “Ka-32”, and the air defense system “Pantsir-SMD-E”.
Chemezov mentioned that the “Ka-52” will participate in aerial displays, demonstrating high maneuverability proven during military operations, including performing complex fire support tasks for ground forces and effectively engaging aerial and ground targets, alongside showcasing high survivability levels.
Additionally, the Russian Knights aerobatics team will conduct aerial shows using the “Su-30” and “Su-35” fighter jets, both of which have demonstrated exceptional combat performance in military operations.
In his remarks, Chemezov affirmed that the export of advanced Russian technologies is a crucial component of the national economy and Russia’s international standing, noting that Russian weaponry has maintained a strong global reputation due to its quality, reliability, and effectiveness.
He explained that Rostec includes Rosoboronexport, the sole organization in Russia authorized to export military and dual-use products and services. Over the past 25 years, the company has signed more than 30,000 contracts, amounting to a total value exceeding $230 billion, with the current order portfolio exceeding $60 billion, the largest in the company’s history, representing Russian equipment in over 120 countries worldwide.
Chemezov mentioned that this year witnessed the approval of a new development strategy for Rostec through 2036, aimed at maintaining Russia’s position as the world’s second-largest arms exporter.
He noted that the Russian defense industries’ operational pace allows for the full fulfillment of government contracts, with the potential to boost exports.
He highlighted the Middle East’s significance as a primary market for Russia, accounting for nearly half of the contracts entered into by Rosoboronexport, which include air defense systems of varying ranges, aircraft, helicopters, combat vehicles, anti-tank systems, drones, anti-drone systems, and advanced simulators.
In addition, military-technical cooperation with regional countries is no longer limited to equipment supply but also includes technology transfer and the establishment of local production lines for military and civilian products, enhancing the capabilities of industrial partners.
Chemezov emphasized that the standout feature of Russian products is their reliability, noting that Russian equipment lacks backdoors and cannot be remotely disabled.
He stated that the effectiveness of Russian systems has been proven in combat scenarios rather than on paper, a key criterion for regional partners focused on field-tested equipment.
He pointed out that all systems on display by Rostec in Dubai are not promotional models but rather developed solutions in direct response to current changes and modern threats.
In this context, he referenced significant advancements in the “Pantsir-SMD-E” system over recent years, highlighting the removal of cannons to create space for additional launchers, allowing the system to carry up to 48 small missiles capable of engaging various aerial targets, including drones.
He indicated that this system has attracted substantial attention since its debut in the UAE during the Idex 2025 exhibition.
Chemezov also mentioned that many Russian systems are highly regarded in the Middle East, including the Pantsir, Kornet, Solntsepyok systems, and a range of armored vehicles, due to their reliability and suitability for the region’s operational conditions.