Black Eagles Saudi Arabia World Defense Show 2026: A Flight Over Improved ROK-Japan Ties

The skies over Okinawa are open once again for South Korea's elite. The Air Force's aerobatic team, the Black Eagles, will participate in the World Defense Show 2026 in Saudi Arabia next month after a successful diplomatic thaw with Japan. According to officials, this mission marks the first time the team will perform at a Middle Eastern defense exhibition, signaling a new chapter for K-Defense outreach.

Black Eagles Saudi Arabia Mission: Strategic Stopover in Okinawa

It's a stark contrast to last November, when a planned appearance in the UAE fell through after Japan denied refueling rights. This time, discussions with Tokyo went smoothly following a recent summit in Nara where both nations agreed on 'future-oriented cooperation.' The team is set to depart from Wonju on January 28 and will hold an exchange event with Japan's 'Blue Impulse' team at Naha Air Base.

Showcasing K-Defense Capabilities

The deployment is massive: 9T-50B aircraft, 4C-130 transport planes, and roughly 120 personnel. Starting February 9, the team will perform 24 high-skill aerial maneuvers daily. This presence at a major Middle Eastern defense hub isn't just for show—it's a strategic move to promote South Korea's aerospace technology to global buyers.