Vector and Saudi Arabia’s SR2 Defense Systems have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to localize production of attritable drone systems in the Kingdom. The agreement centers on unmanned systems manufacturing, assembly, and sustainment to support regional defense operations.
Vector–SR2 partnership for attritable drone systems
Under the MoU, Vector and SR2 will explore localized manufacturing of small, attritable systems designed for rapid deployment and high operational tempo. The partners aim to align technical, industrial, regulatory, and commercial requirements to accelerate fielding of unmanned systems in Saudi Arabia. The framework supports Vision 2030 goals for 50% defense localization by 2030 through sovereign defense industrial capabilities.
The focus on attritable drone systems responds to the cost asymmetry exposed by Iranian Shahed drones, which range from $20,000 to $50,000 per unit and demand expensive intercepts. Vector’s small unmanned systems seek to narrow that gap by delivering cost-effective, expendable platforms that can operate at scale. Local production in Saudi Arabia places these systems closer to regional theaters and reduces logistics burden.
SR2 Defense Systems, the first private-sector US–Saudi joint venture in defense technology manufacturing, will act as Vector’s in-kingdom partner for production and sustainment. The company focuses on advanced technology domains and regional capability development, supporting long-term unmanned systems capacity in Saudi Arabia.
“We saw the need for increased U.S.-backed defense systems in Saudi Arabia early – Iran’s strikes on Saudi Arabia and across the region confirm the Vector-SR2 joint position in strengthening American and allied deterrence,” said Andy Yakulis, CEO and Co-Founder of Vector. “Vector builds systems to be modular, scalable, and deployable fast. That means we can get our products on the ground and in the fight today, and build the infrastructure to dominate future conflicts tomorrow. We are not standing on the sidelines; we’re running towards the fire.”
Building regional drone production capacity
The agreement positions Saudi Arabia as a regional hub for advanced unmanned systems production and sustainment. Localized manufacturing of U.S. systems aims to strengthen Gulf partners’ ability to respond quickly to evolving drone and missile threats. Production in-country also reduces exposure to disrupted global supply chains and supports long-term sustainment of deployed UAS fleets.
“This MoU reflects SR2’s strong interest in exploring advanced defense manufacturing opportunities that contribute to Saudi Arabia’s growing industrial base, and in crucial times like this, that has real impact and benefit for our American allies,” said Idris Alzakari, CEO of SR2 Defense Systems Saudi Arabia. “Vector represents best-in-class American capabilities and technology, and there’s never been a more important time to work toward establishing and sustaining these capabilities here in Saudi Arabia.”
Vector, founded by former special operations personnel and defense technologists, delivers unmanned and counter-UAS systems for military, law enforcement, and public safety missions. The company emphasizes modular, high-performance platforms that integrate into existing architectures and evolve with changing operational demands.
More information about Vector is available from their website. More information about SR2 is available from their website.
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