Create a free starter account, or log in.

Get access to four free articles per month, as well as our Decisive Edge Newsletters and Daily News Bulletin.

Email Address

Password

Forgot your password? Reset by clicking here

Create a Password

[[ req.met ? '✓' : '•' ]] [[ req.text ]]

Re-enter Password

Passwords do not match

First Name

Last Name

Country

Confirm your account

Please enter the four-digit pin below that has been emailed to you.

Didn't receive the pin yet?

This pin expires in 20 minutes.

[[ error ]]

By creating an account, you agree to the Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Stay informed with Shephard's award-winning journalism. Unlock unlimited access and in-depth analysis with a corporate or individual subscription.

Explore your options here

US says F-35 and MQ-9 sale to UAE still ‘on the table’

22nd June 2022 - 15:00 GMT | by Tim Martin in Belfast

RSS

The UAE's interest in acquiring F-35s remains despite the recent Rafale buy, but technology transfer issues are still a concern. (Photo: USAF)

Almost two years in the making, a deal between the United Arab Emirates and the US for F-35 fighters and MQ-9 UAS could still happen.

The UAE's $23 billion buy of Lockheed Martin F-35 fighter jets, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. (GA-ASI) MQ-9 MALE UAVs and other munitions could yet go ahead, despite suffering setbacks since initially being approved by the US State Department in November 2020.

The overall package includes up to 50 F-35A fifth generation fighters, a maximum of 18 MQ-9B Reaper aircraft and additional weapons like Raytheon’s AIM-9X Block II+ missile but has reportedly suffered from disagreements over access to onboard technologies and US security concerns over the UAE favouring Chinese telecommunications provider Huawei for its 5G networks.

‘The proposed sale of

Already have an account? Log in