Russia, Mideast countries discussing joint production of armored vehicles, aircraft

DUBAI. Nov 13 (Interfax) - Russia is ready to produce weapons and military hardware together with Middle Eastern countries, Rosoboronexport head Alexander Mikheyev told Interfax.

"We are discussing joint development and production, including of firearms, armored vehicles, and aircraft of the latest generations, in the Middle East," Mikheyev said at Dubai Airshow 2023 on Monday.

"Given that countries of the region seek to enhance [their] technological independence and to develop their national defense industries, Rosoboronexport sees great potential for technological cooperation in the first instance," Mikheyev said.

Middle Eastern countries account for 40% to 50% of the Rosoboronexport book of orders, he said.