US says F-35 and MQ-9 sale to UAE still ‘on the table’
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
Want to keep reading this article?
Read this Article
Get access to this article with a Free Basic Account
- Original curated content, daily across air, land and naval domains
- 2 free stories per week
- Daily news round-up email service
- Access to all Decisive Edge email newsletters
Unlimited Access
Access to all our premium news as a Premium News 365 Member. Corporate subscriptions available.
- Original curated content, daily across air, land and naval domains
- 14-day free trial (cancel at any time)
- Unlimited access to all published premium news
More from Air Warfare
-
![Analysis: Is the C-5 Galaxy in it for the long-haul?]()
Analysis: Is the C-5 Galaxy in it for the long-haul?
What are the realistic options for replacing or replicating the C-5’s unique capability when it finally reaches its end of life?
-
![XTEND wins contract for precision strike drone]()
XTEND wins contract for precision strike drone
XTEND is supplying its Scorpio UAS to meet a US DoD requirement for an indoor/outdoor strike drone.
-
![US Congress limits F-35 procurement]()
US Congress limits F-35 procurement
Restrictions cover new purchases of the three variants of the multirole fighter and require the DoD to correct issues in the acquisition programme.
