- Russia is banned from most of the world’s major air shows, like the leading ones in Paris and Farnborough.
- But it showed off its military aircraft and a new missile at this month’s Dubai Air Show.
- Russia’s presence was kept quiet and its displays were off to the side.
The Dubai Airshow, which took place in mid-November, was set against a backdrop of increasing geopolitical tensions around the globe.
Israeli defense companies IAI and Rafael left their stands empty in the exhibition hall, but there were also unexpected appearances.
Russian aircraft on display — including the Ka-52 helicopter which is being used in the Ukraine war — were not included on the sirshow’s aircraft list, and the country’s chalet was uniquely labeled on pre-show maps as simply “Pavilion.” Although the indoor stand for Roscosmos, Russia’s space agency, was listed.
Since its invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022, Russia has been banned from most air shows like the leading Paris and Farnborough ones.
So the Dubai Airshow gave Business Insider the rare chance to see some Russian military aircraft, missiles, and model spacecraft in person.
