SOFEX 2026

[The SC]

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The Special Operations Forces Exhibition and Conference (SOFEX 2026) is one of the world’s leading defense, security, and special operations exhibitions, bringing together military and security leaders, government representatives, and major international companies to showcase the latest military technologies, defense solutions, cybersecurity systems, drones, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The 15th edition of SOFEX will be held at the Aqaba International Exhibition and Convention Center in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, under the patronage of His Majesty King Abdullah II, Supreme Commander of the Jordanian Armed Forces, and in coordination with the Jordanian Armed Forces – Arab Army. The exhibition aims to enhance international cooperation, facilitate the exchange of expertise, and build strategic partnerships, in addition to providing live demonstrations of modern defense technologies and equipment. The 2026 edition will witness broad international participation, attracting more than 400 official delegations representing approximately 75 countries and 350 exhibiting companies from 38 countries, further solidifying SOFEX’s position as an international platform for networking and developing partnerships in the defense and security sectors.



The spokesperson for the Jordan Design and Development Bureau (JDDB), Mu'taz Al-Ateen, stated on Tuesday that approximately 50% of the companies participating in the Special Operations Forces Exhibition (SOFEX) are focused on emerging technologies, future technologies, unmanned systems, and drones.

Al-Ateen told Al-Mamlaka TV that the center is showcasing around 49 new products during the 15th edition of the exhibition, several of which focus on future technologies, including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, virtual reality, and encryption.

He explained that 18 of the new products and solutions fall within these areas, which are witnessing increasing interest in both the military and civilian sectors. He noted that among them are the "Haseen," "Moeen," and "Aoun" applications, which utilize artificial intelligence to support decision-making processes within military institutions.

Al-Ateen noted that SOFEX is witnessing the participation of approximately 400 delegations from 75 countries, along with 350 companies from 38 countries, pointing out that advanced technologies, unmanned systems, and drones are among the top priorities for participants.

He added that the Special Operations Forces Commanders Conference, held prior to the exhibition, addressed topics related to drones, unmanned systems, and emerging technologies, in light of the rapidly changing nature of security and military threats.

He emphasized that keeping pace with these changes requires developing technological solutions capable of addressing the challenges facing armies and nations. In the context of counterterrorism, he noted that Jordanian special operations forces employ diverse operational methods and follow international best practices to confront evolving threats in the region and the world.

Regarding Jordan's hosting of the exhibition, Al-Ateen stated that the broad international participation sends a message about the Kingdom's security and stability, despite the uncertainty at the regional level.

He added that Jordan possesses the necessary elements to become a regional hub for defense industries, noting the potential for developing Aqaba into a regional logistics center.

Al-Ateen pointed to the ongoing partnerships and agreements on the sidelines of the exhibition, particularly in the areas of exchanging expertise and transferring technology and knowledge. He explained that announcements regarding new partnerships will be made in due course, either by the participating companies or the King Abdullah II Design and Development Bureau.

 

[The SC]

His Royal Highness Prince Faisal bin Al-Hussein visited the UAE National Pavilion participating in the SOFEX 2026 Special Operations Equipment Exhibition, where His Highness toured the pavilion and viewed the latest products, technologies, and advanced services showcased by an elite group of leading Emirati companies and entities, reflecting the advanced capabilities of the defense industries sector in the United Arab Emirates.The SOFEX exhibition serves as an important platform for Emirati companies to connect with international partners, build new relationships, and explore opportunities for cooperation and growth, contributing to strengthening partnerships and expanding horizons of international collaboration.The participation of the UAE National Pavilion is supported by the Ministry of Defense and the Defense Empowerment Balance Council, and organized by the ADNOC Group.

 

[The SC]

Advancing Defense Capabilities Through InnovationAt SOFEX 2026, Jordan Design and Development Bureau (JODDB) unveiled a new range of advanced defense and technology products and solutions, marking another milestone in its ongoing commitment to innovation and the advancement of Jordan’s defense industries.

These launches reflect JODDB’s continued efforts to strengthen its technical and manufacturing capabilities, expand its product portfolio, and leverage national expertise to develop advanced solutions that address evolving defense and security requirements while keeping pace with technological advancements.

 

[The SC]

Jordanian defense systems and equipment company Jadarah has unveiled its new products: warheads designed for lightweight FPV kamikaze drones.The unveiled warheads come in two types:

1) High Explosive HE
J-106 HE-15
J-106 HE-10
J-106X HE-10

2) Anti-Tank AT
J-106 AT-10