Hanwha Aerospace has officially inaugurated its Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Regional Headquarters in Riyadh, a move that underscores the South Korean defense giant’s long-term commitment to strengthening partnerships and advancing industrial cooperation in the region.
Strengthening Saudi Vision 2030 Goals
The launch aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, particularly its objective of localizing over 50% of defense spending by the end of the decade. Hanwha plans to expand local supply chains, establish joint production lines, and create high-skilled jobs in the Kingdom. The company is also exploring Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities, training programs, and joint R&D projects to reinforce Saudi Arabia’s defense ecosystem and supply chain resilience.
High-Profile Inauguration Ceremony
The event was attended by H.E. Eng. Ahmad bin Abdulaziz Al-Ohali, Governor of the General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI), and H.E. Mr. Seok Jong-gun, South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) Minister. Around 80 delegates from the Saudi Ministry of Defense, Ministry of National Guard, Ministry of Investment, Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI), and the Korean Embassy were present, alongside executives from Hanwha Aerospace, Hanwha Systems, and Hanwha Ocean.
Expanding Defense and Industrial Partnerships
Hanwha’s regional headquarters will serve as a hub for cooperation across land, naval, and aerospace systems, supporting defense modernization while fostering economic diversification. Its portfolio includes the K9 self-propelled howitzer, Tigon 8×8 armored vehicle, and next-generation air defense solutions such as the M-SAM.
Beyond defense, Hanwha is expanding into smart cities, renewable energy, and the space sector, positioning Riyadh as a strategic gateway for Gulf and North African markets.
Strengthening Regional Security
“Building on the foundation of collaboration Hanwha has established throughout the region, our new headquarters will serve as a regional hub for cooperation in land, naval, and aerospace systems—helping enhance security while supporting industrial growth and job creation,” said Mr. Sung Il, President for Middle East and Africa at Hanwha Aerospace.
About Hanwha Group
Hanwha Group, ranked among the Fortune Global 500 and South Korea’s seventh-largest conglomerate, reported revenues of over USD 65 billion in 2024. The Group operates across defense, aerospace, energy, finance, chemicals, shipbuilding, and construction.
