Could the Middle East be the next target for the F-35A?
The F-35A features advanced stealth capabilities. (Photo: Lockheed Martin)
As the Trump administration strengthens its ties with countries across the Middle East, new potential export opportunities for American defence equipment are arising. The F-35A, one of the most sought-after and advanced platforms in the aerospace industry, has been of interest to multiple Middle Eastern countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Turkey.
The F-35 Lightning II is a fifth-generation multirole combat aircraft, featuring advanced stealth capabilities and technology including electronic warfare systems, radars and sensors. The aircraft affords operators an information advantage during use through its ability to offer real-time data sharing with other platforms and advanced detective
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Air Warfare
-
Eurosatory 2026: Wartime iteration gives Ukraine an edge as future UAV exporter
As industrial-scale drone production proves its battlefield worth in Ukraine, what happens to that production capacity and knowhow once the guns fall silent – and is Ukraine about to become one of the world’s most credible UAV export partners?
-
Callen-Lenz pushes ahead with Nyan OWE as it hails operational success
The one-way-effector uncrewed aerial vehicle has also been tested by the British Army, following on from its contract award notice in February 2026.
-
Eurosatory 2026: Locally produced loitering munition destined for UAE Navy, says MBDA
The contract signed between MBDA and Fly-R will see diamond-shaped loitering munitions developed and prepared in the UAE. How does this move fit into wider market trends in the region?
-
Eurosatory 2026: MBDA and Thales look to civilian industry for loitering munition scale-up
Thales and MBDA have taken steps to ensure the mass production of their respective loitering munition offerings at Eurosatoy, teaming with civilian manufacturers. These moves come amid France’s push towards sovereign drone production and continued market expansion.