In light of the tremendous advances in the defence sector, the military power of nations is no longer measured solely by the size of their armed forces, but rather their optimisation through modern technological solutions. MEMTEC will showcase how these global developments will reshape regional conflicts in the Middle East.

During the last few decades, military technology has been a key focus for many countries, especially in the West, as reflected in the volume of investments in this field. Technology does not only enhance the capabilities of armed forces, but also significantly impacts the quality and effectiveness in preparation for national defence. Technology also impacts the military doctrine of countries, a clear example seen in the number of countries that have established cyber warfare units within their armed forces or intelligence agencies.

Given the importance of military technology to the development of armed forces in response to the rapid fluctuations in threats to the national security of states, and given the role of technology in minimizing post-conflict impacts, there are five challenges facing this technology:

First, issues related to the adoption of military technology by foreign states or non-state groups that may seek to target the vital installations, especially oil facilities, of other countries.

Second, despite the fact that a number of western countries are the recognized leaders in the field of acquiring and developing military technology, there are other countries that are in the process of becoming serious competitors to these western countries, especially in the area of cyberspace. Furthermore, highly expensive military technologies can be targeted by low-cost military technology and weaponry.

Third, although sanctions have been imposed on certain countries that have sought to use technology to develop weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery, such as long-range missiles, such countries continue to attempt circumventing those sanctions, which represents a challenge to both regional and global security.

Fourth, several countries in conflict-ridden regions seek to obtain advanced missile systems. This could lead to the exacerbation of the imbalance of power and thus prolong conflicts.