K-방산의 미래: SNT다이내믹스의 120㎜ 박격포, 중동 시장을 사로잡다!

A Saudi visitor examines SNT Dynamics’ 120mm mortar system mounted on a multipurpose tactical vehicle (MPV) at the World Defense Show (WDS) 2026 in Riyadh on February 8. Photo courtesy of SNT Group

SNT Dynamics and SNT Motiv are making waves at the WDS 2026 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as they showcase their cutting-edge defense technology to an eager Middle Eastern market. Their presence is bolstering the potential for expanded K-defense exports in the region.

SNT Group reported on February 10 that their joint exhibition booth has been a hub of activity since the show’s opening on February 8. Defense officials from across the Middle East and Central Asia, including Egypt, Qatar, Iraq, Turkey, and Uzbekistan, have shown keen interest in the companies’ offerings. The spotlight has been on SNT Dynamics’ MPV-mounted 120mm mortar system, a piece of hardware that Saudi Arabia is particularly eager to acquire. This advanced weapons platform, which combines the precision and rapid-fire capabilities of a 120mm mortar with the mobility of a tactical vehicle, is tailor-made for desert warfare. Industry insiders expect several export contracts to be finalized in the near future.

Another hot topic at the show is the domestically produced transmission now being used in the fourth production run of South Korea’s K2 main battle tank. This component, which has proven its mettle in Turkey’s Altay tank, has sparked discussions about potential maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) contracts with various Middle Eastern militaries impressed by its desert performance.

SNT Motiv, already a major player in the region with significant small arms exports to Saudi Arabia and the UAE, is turning heads with its latest offerings: low-risk pistols and ammunition. These innovative products are engineered to maximize effectiveness while minimizing the risk of fatal injuries. The company’s expansion into this niche market follows a successful showing at Shot Show 2026 in Las Vegas last month, where North American buyers expressed strong interest. This positive reception in both North America and the Middle East signals promising export potential for SNT Motiv’s new line.

WDS 2026, running from February 8 to 12 in Riyadh, is the Middle East’s premier defense exhibition. This year’s event has drawn over 770 defense contractors from 76 countries, all vying for lucrative contracts in the competitive global arms market.

bsk730@fnnews.com By Kwon Byeong-seok, Military Affairs Correspondent