Rosoboronexport, part of Rostec, will lead the joint Russian defense exhibit at DSA 2026 (Defence Services Asia), one of the largest military and homeland security exhibitions in the Asia-Pacific region.
The event will be held from April 20 to 23, 2026, at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) in Kuala Lumpur.
According to company chief Alexander Mikheev, the Russian pavilion will focus on combat-tested air, drone, and infantry systems, highlighting Moscow’s intent to deepen military-technical ties with Malaysia and other Asia-Pacific partners.
Su-57E Fighter Draws Major Attention
The headline system at the Russian exhibit is the Sukhoi Su-57 fifth-generation fighter.
Rosoboronexport says the export variant is already generating significant international interest and is being offered only to trusted partner countries.
For Malaysia, the aircraft is being positioned as a possible modernization path for the Royal Malaysian Air Force’s Su-30MKM fleet, which already shares Russian-origin systems and weapons architecture.
This compatibility angle could be a major selling point for Kuala Lumpur’s future air force modernization plans.
Combat-Proven Drones and Loitering Munitions
Another major focus will be Russia’s UAV and loitering munition portfolio, particularly systems marketed as combat-proven.
Featured platforms include:
- Lancet-E loitering munition
- KUB-2E guided loitering munition
- S350M-E (Supercam S350) reconnaissance UAV
- Skat 350M UAV
- Orlan-10E and Orlan-30 systems
These systems are expected to attract interest from regional militaries seeking cost-effective ISR and strike capabilities.
Small Arms and Special Forces Equipment
Rosoboronexport will also display a wide range of infantry and special operations equipment, including:
- AK-19 assault rifle
- AK-15
- AK-308
- PPK-20 submachine gun
- Lebedev 9mm pistol
- RPL-20 light machine gun
- SVCh sniper rifle
The inclusion of personal equipment, optics, and protective systems suggests Russia is targeting both military and internal security procurement markets.
Cybersecurity and Security Systems Debut
A notable first-time unveiling at DSA 2026 is Echo, Russia’s new cybersecurity solution designed to counter modern cyberattacks.
The company will also present:
- explosive detectors
- hazardous chemical and biological screening tools
- transport hub security systems
- crowd protection technologies
This broadens Russia’s offering beyond traditional weapons platforms into homeland security solutions.
Why DSA 2026 Matters
DSA is widely regarded as one of the most important defense exhibitions in the Asia-Pacific.
The 2026 edition is expected to bring together over 1,400 exhibitors and around 50,000 visitors, including defense ministries, armed forces delegations, and procurement officials.
For Russia, the event offers a strategic platform to expand defense exports across Southeast Asia.
For Malaysia, it presents another opportunity to assess next-generation fighter, drone, and defense technology options.
