Protesters rally outside controversial weapons expo

Thousands of protesters gathered outside a weapons expo in Perth, deemed Australia's largest land defence industry exhibition. Approximately 2,000 anti-war demonstrators, accompanied by dozens of police, marched through the city's busiest street, holding signs reading "Stop War" and "Cut Military Spending." They chanted, "We are the people; we won't be silent," as they moved towards the expo. However, the protest did not reach the defense event, and the rally concluded peacefully.

The Land Forces International Land Defence Exposition attracted over 15,000 interstate and international attendees, including high-ranking government and military officials. Defense Minister Richard Marles praised the expo as a showcase of Australia's best defense industry and land forces capabilities. He emphasized that the defense industry provides essential equipment for the safety of soldiers, sailors, and aviators.

Among the exhibitors was Israeli defense company Rafael Advanced Defence Systems, showcasing its Spike guided missile system. Critics, such as WA Greens MP Sophie McNeill, argued that Rafael should be removed from the conference due to the missile's involvement in civilian casualties in Gaza. McNeill also noted that Australian Army officers were hosted by Rafael workers at the stand, deeming it inappropriate.

The three-day event featured more than 900 companies displaying equipment and services. British aerospace company BAE Systems exhibited its affordable long-range missile, while US aerospace company Boeing showcased its battle communications systems and Apache helicopter. Lockheed Martin, the manufacturer of the Black Hawk helicopter, displayed various defensive and offensive missile systems.

Australian Army equipment boffin Brigadier James Davis emphasized the expo as an opportunity for defense companies and soldiers worldwide to collaborate and discuss potential cooperation.