National pavilions from over 31 countries are also expected at the February 12-17 International Defense Exhibition and Conference, said the General Exhibitions Corporation, the exhibitions arm of the Abu Dhabi government.

A specialized rotor craft pavilion with the participation of big industry names such as Eurocopter, Augusta Westland, Sikorsky and Denel, will be the new feature at the exhibit, which is held every two years in the UAE capital.

A parallel seminar on helicopter operations in the Gulf will take place during the show, which will be attended by heads of state, top defense officials and manufacturers, according to the organizers.

Vehicle mobility demonstrations will include tracked and wheeled vehicles being demonstrated in a huge, purpose-built arena.

"Live" firing demonstrations and demonstrations of small amphibious naval craft in an artificial channel are also planned, along with a defense conference.