What is arms fair?

An arms fair, also known as a defense exhibition or military trade show, is an event where companies from the defense and arms industry showcase their products and services to potential buyers, which are usually military officials, governments, and law enforcement agencies from around the world. The primary purpose of an arms fair is to promote arms sales and generate new business contracts.

Arms fairs can be open to the public, or they can be invitation-only events for qualified buyers and industry professionals. Exhibitors can showcase a wide variety of products, including weapons, ammunition, vehicles, electronic systems, and communication devices. These events can take place in a variety of locations, from convention centers and exhibition halls to outdoor venues and military bases.

Arms fairs are controversial because they encourage the sale of weapons, which can have negative consequences, such as fueling conflicts, human rights abuses, and terrorism. Critics argue that weapons sales should be tightly regulated and that arms fairs only serve to promote violence and instability around the world. Proponents argue that arms sales are necessary for national defense and security and that arms fairs provide a crucial forum for buyers and sellers to connect, share information, and conduct business agreements.