Riyadh: The Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST), in partnership with a number of military and security entities, launched the Defence and Security Spectrum Outlook during the third edition of the World Defense Show 2026. CST also held a panel discussion titled 'Enabling Defense and Security Applications Through Radio Spectrum Roadmaps and Outlooks,' with the participation of specialists and experts in the field.
According to Saudi Press Agency, CST explained that the Defence and Security Spectrum Outlook aims to enhance the efficiency of radio spectrum use to support advanced defense and security technologies and applications in the Kingdom, improve spectrum management governance for government entities in line with the National Frequency Plan, and enable the operational requirements of these entities by meeting their spectrum needs.
The outlook focuses on analyzing current spectrum uses for defense and security applications and addressing related management challenges, in addition to identifying priority frequency bands. This will enable advanced technologies in areas such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), radars, sensing and surveillance technologies, satellite communications, and international mobile telecommunications (IMT) for defense and security applications.
CST noted that the outlook includes the development of mechanisms for reallocating and sharing frequency bands to enhance government and civil uses, the establishment of clear regulatory frameworks, and the strengthening of integrated coordination among relevant authorities. It also seeks to enhance spectrum management governance by reinforcing the role of the National Spectrum Coordination Committee (NSCC) and monitoring the outcomes of the World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-27), ensuring alignment between national directions and global developments in spectrum management.
The panel discussion featured King Saud University faculty member and Chairman of CST's Spectrum Advisory Group Dr. Sami Alhumaidi; Director for Research and Technology Programs at Lockheed Martin Dr. Lawrence Schuette; General Manager of the General Directorate of Electronic Warfare at Prince Sultan Defense Studies and Research Center Eng. Thamer bin Khamis; and General Manager of Radio Spectrum Assignment at CST Eng. Ayman Maghrabi. The session was moderated by Director of Government Radio Spectrum at CST Eng. Omar Alsalik.
CST's participation in the third edition of the World Defense Show comes as part of its regulatory and enabling roles to enhance spectrum management and raise the efficiency of its use in supporting vital sectors in the Kingdom, in line with global developments and the adoption of advanced technologies.