Belgium-based defense company, John Cockerill Defense, showcased a range of cutting-edge products and capabilities at the prestigious World Defense Show (WDS) held earlier this year in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. A company official highlighted their commitment to supporting the kingdom's national authorities and defense industry during the event.
Simon Haye, the Chief Marketing Officer of John Cockerill Defense, provided an exclusive insight into the array of products presented at the fair during an interview with DefenseHere.
One of the highlights was the Cockerill i-X – a ground interceptor known for its modular multi-weapons system. With “I” symbolizing “interceptor” and “X” for “modular,” this combat system is designed for territorial defense interception, aimed at engaging and neutralizing incoming threats before they reach their targets.
Haye emphasized the uniqueness of the vehicle, capable of exceeding speeds of 200 km/h while weighing less than four tons. Equipped with a 25-millimeter weapon, it delivers formidable firepower over long distances to intercept threats effectively.
The Cockerill i-X underwent its first firing trials in September-October 2022 in Belgium. Following successful trials, the French Army expressed interest, leading to further assessment. In October 2023, French Army personnel conducted tests in Canjuers, France, where the prototype showcased its capability to fire on the move at speeds of 120 km/h, demonstrating exceptional performance in engaging moving targets. These trials validated the feasibility of stabilizing a 25 mm weapon on a vehicle weighing less than four tons.
Another notable product showcased at the WDS was the 25-millimeter turret, designed to meet the evolving needs of modern warfare. Haye expressed confidence in its potential relevance to the French army's forthcoming programs, particularly for 4x4 vehicles, due to its compact and versatile design.
The remote-operated Cockerill CPWS station (Cockerill Protected Weapon Station) featured advanced technologies and a selection of medium-caliber guns, enhancing the firepower and self-protection capabilities of light and highly mobile vehicles, as well as troop transport vehicles.
Regarding the Saudi market and potential collaborations, Haye highlighted the company's existing presence in Saudi Arabia, providing comprehensive support including logistics, training, spares, and upgrades for various defense systems deployed across the kingdom. John Cockerill Defense has actively contributed to equipping different branches of the Saudi armed forces, demonstrating a commitment to localizing support services and technology transfer initiatives, according to him.
Haye emphasized the company's efforts to increase local employment, with 75% of the workforce already comprising Saudi employees. Looking ahead, John Cockerill Defense aims to further enhance local content to support existing platforms and future endeavors in alignment with Saudi Arabia's 2030 plans, fostering partnerships with local industries to strengthen supply chains and facilitate technology transfer initiatives.
