UAE’s Ministry of Defence announced a significant defence partnership with the US, marking a major milestone in bilateral relations, The National reported on May 19th.
Mohammed Al Mazrouei, Minister of State for Defence Affairs, and US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth signed the letter of intent at a ceremony held at the ministry’s headquarters in Abu Dhabi.
According to a joint statement from the Pentagon: “this letter of intent represents a joint commitment to develop a structured road map aimed at enhancing joint military co-operation, capacity development and achieving long-term defence alignment between the two countries.” The statement also confirmed that “the two sides will collaborate on a phased framework to enhance bilateral force readiness.”
In line with this commitment, the US Defence Innovation Unit will launch a new strategic initiative with the UAE’s Tawazun Council, the nation’s authority for defence and security acquisitions. This initiative will promote joint research and development, while also broadening industrial and investment partnerships, the UAE ministry announced. Additionally, the UAE joined the US National Guard Partnership Programme through a new alliance with the Texas National Guard.
This partnership comes shortly after US President Donald Trump’s high-stakes visit to the Gulf. Many regional analysts have interpreted it as a pivotal reset in Washington’s relationship with its Arab allies. During the visit, the White House confirmed $2 trillion in commercial deals and investment plans. These varied across sectors such as aviation, artificial intelligence, defence, technology, and energy.
Trump praised the UAE. He said: “You’re an amazing country,” and emphasised the strength of their relationship. “You can have your choice, but I know you’ll never leave my side… We have now, I think, substantially over $10 trillion of investment.” Addressing President Sheikh Mohamed, he added: “You’re a magnificent man and it’s an honour to be with you.”
The National, The Guardian
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