ILLUSTRATIVE IMAGE: U.S. Air Force photo/Samuel King Jr.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has suspended a $23 billion deal to buy US-made F-35 fighter jets and MQ-9 combat drones, the CNN reported on December 14.
An unnamed Emirati official told the Atlanta-based news network that Abu Dhabi’s frustration with Washington’s attempts to limit Chinese technology sales to the UAE was behind the decision.
“The UAE has informed the US that it will suspend discussions to acquire the F-35,” the official said. “Technical requirements, sovereign operational restrictions, and cost/benefit analysis led to the re-assessment.”
The official went on to say that the US will remain “the UAE’s preferred provider for advanced defense requirements and discussions for the F-35 may be re-opened in the future.”
Washington’s main concern was reportedly Abu Dhabi’s relationship with China, including use of Huawei 5G technology in the country.
Earlier, Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said that the partnership with the UAE was more strategic and complex than a weapons sale and Washington was committed to working with Abu Dhabi to address their questions.
“We will always insist, as a matter of statutory requirements and policy, on a variety of end use requirements,” Kirby said, according to Reuters.
Under the multi-billion dollar deal, the UAE Air Force was supposed to receive 50 F-35 fighter jets and up to 18 MQ-9 combat drones. The deal was a cornerstone of the US-sponsored 2020 Israel–UAE peace agreement
It’s worth noting that on December 3, the UAE signed a $19.20 billion deal for 80 French-made Rafale fighter jets and 12 Caracal helicopters. The collapse of the F-35 deal was likely one of the reasons that pushed Abu Dhabi closer to the French contract.
The UAE may soon look into other options to arm its air force with stealth 5th generation fighter jets. One of the most likely option is the Russian-made Su-75 Checkmate, which was showcased during the 2021 Dubai Airshow. Abu Dhabi was reportedly interested in the project.
Imagine how much they can invest Into their military technology programs, but Saudi and UAE are both fucking idiots who rely on America for everything
It was that oil for dollar/arms program that made this happen. Guess they have realized they have more options now. US was not able to protect them from the Houthies with their shiny and high-tech weapons.
Some say America isn’t giving them jets with its full capabilities, but I think that’s BS because Saudi Arabia is just as evil America/Israel and Saudi have funded all terrorist attacks for Israel, including 9/11 and others
Smart people. Pirate Inc can go and eff themselves.
UAE should buy Russian jets instead.
Best thing they could have done.
The UAE have realised some while ago, that relying solely on the US (or their vassals) isn’t the best way to go. The UAE was about to have China build a military base. Don’t know what the latest is on that. It is also worth noting that the UAE are poised to contruct 300 MW power projects in Iran’s Khuzestan. UAE has also partly withdrawn from the war in Yemen. UAE is likely not interested in military confrontation. Seeing that the influence of SCO-states grows, while the US is somewhat struggling, it is understandable that they’re looking to diversify their game and cooperated with neighbours.