Balkan Shield 2026 defense expo opens in Sarajevo

The First Balkan Shield 2026, a major international defense and military equipment expo, has opened in Sarajevo at the Zetra Olympic Hall. The event showcases the growing capabilities of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s defense industry, featuring exhibitors from Turkey, China, Egypt, Slovenia, and the United States.

A major highlight of the expo is the presentation of the AC AR-15, the first domestic assault rifle from the Goražde-based company AC Unity. Built to NATO and MIL-SPEC standards, the rifle has already undergone testing in Middle Eastern conditions. Other notable domestic military advancements include drones from the Center for Advanced Technologies and 105mm howitzers from BNT.

Political leaders, including Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Defense Minister Zukan Helez and Federation of BiH Prime Minister Nermin Nikšić, emphasized that the defense sector is a strategic pillar for national security, economic development, and technological progress. The summit also serves as a platform for international cooperation, highlighted by strong military ties and support from Turkey.

Beyond defense, the region is seeing diverse commercial activity, including a major investment forum for Chinese companies in Sarajevo and the upcoming opening of the S Centar shopping complex in Visoko.