SDF delegation attends DIMDEX 2026 to stay abreast of latest developments and trends in defence & security technologies

A delegation from the Seychelles Defence Forces (SDF) led by the Deputy Chief of Defence Forces, Brigadier Jean Attala, attended DIMDEX 2026, held from 19–22 January 2026 in Doha. 

The event, hosted by the Qatar Armed Forces under the patronage of Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of Qatar, brought together global decision-makers and innovators under the theme “A Global Hub for Defence Innovations: Invest in Possibilities to Shape a Secure Tomorrow.”

Attala, who was accompanied by four SDF officers, told SNA that the exhibition provides a valuable platform to observe a wide range of advanced military hardware, software, and emerging defence technologies.

It also helps “to assess solutions that may be suitable for enhancing our operational capabilities and supporting the effective execution of our mandate,” he added.

SDF Officers getting an explanation on one of the exhibits. (Seychelles Defence Forces) Photo Licence: CC BY

“Participation also allows us to stay abreast of the latest developments and trends in defence and security technologies, while facilitating direct engagement with international defence companies—both those of interest to the SDF and those seeking to offer tailored solutions to our specific operational and capability challenges,” said the Brigadier.

Of particular interest to the Seychelles Defence Forces are maritime-focused solutions to enhance surveillance of our vast maritime zones and strengthen overall Maritime Domain Awareness.

Such an event is of great benefit and will help in the surveillance of the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of 1.4 million square kilometres of the Seychelles archipelago in the western Indian Ocean.

“This includes advanced technologies such as aerial and surface drones, modern patrol vessels, and integrated systems that leverage emerging capabilities, including artificial intelligence, to improve detection, monitoring, decision-making, and operational effectiveness across the maritime domain,” said Attala. 

SDF Officers in a discussion with other participants at the event. (Seychelles Defence Forces) Photo Licence: CC BY

SDF said in a press release that the visit proved highly fruitful, with engagements and discussions held with key defence partners and industry leaders, reinforcing existing cooperation and exploring future opportunities.

DIMDEX is a flagship event comprising a defence exhibition and other interactions for the global maritime defence and security sector. DIMDEX 2026 brought together key decision-makers from around the world for four days of strategic engagement.

The exhibition creates valuable commercial opportunities for exhibitors presenting cutting-edge technological innovations and solutions for the defence and security industry, while also fostering international partnerships and high-level networking across businesses and governments. In addition, the event provides a platform for in-depth dialogue on critical defence and security issues that continue to shape today’s global stability.

The participation reflects the SDF’s continued commitment to international engagement, capability development, and strengthening strategic partnerships in an evolving global security environment.