The tenth International Defense Exhibition and Conference has opened in the United Arab Emirates’ capital of Abu Dhabi.

Some one-thousand defense-related firms from 73 countries, including the United States and China, are taking part in the event that opened Sunday.

A total of 17 South Korean companies are participating in the exhibition and conference as part of efforts to establish a presence in the Middle East. The firms are introducing tactical electronic intelligence equipment and South Korea’s homegrown T-50 advanced trainer jets.

A group of high-level government officials, including Vice Defense Minister Lee Yong-gul, are visiting Abu Dhabi in a bid to promote exchanges and cooperation with the United Arab Emirates' defense industries.

Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan visited the South Korean exhibition hall, where he reportedly showed keen interest in South Korea’s defense technology.

The International Defense Exhibition and Conference is the largest defense and security event in the Middle East and North African region. The event will run until Thursday.