The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has made it clear that it has no intentions of resuming negotiations with the United States over a multi-billion dollar deal for F-35 fighter jets, regardless of the outcome of the upcoming US elections. The decision to not reopen discussions comes after a previous report hinted that the UAE might reconsider negotiations if Donald Trump were to win a second term.
The acquisition of the F-35, known for its cutting-edge technology, would be significant for the UAE, positioning it as the second Middle Eastern country to operate these advanced jets after Israel. Despite the US being the primary customer and supporter of the F-35 programme, several other countries have also contributed towards its development costs.
Former President Trump had initially authorised the deal after the UAE’s normalization of relations with Israel in 2020. However, discussions were suspended in 2021 due to concerns raised by the Biden administration over the UAE’s use of Chinese technology.
While the UAE already operates other fighter jets, their openness to military ties with China has raised eyebrows. Leaked documents suggest that China resumed constructing a military base in the UAE despite US objections.
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