UAE receives first Rafale fighter jets in Dh63.5B deal with France
text_fields
The UAE has officially received the first batch of 80 Rafale fighter jets from France, marking a significant milestone in the strategic partnership between the two nations. The Ministry of Defence announced the handover on Thursday, highlighting the importance of the deal in enhancing the country’s defence capabilities.
The jets, produced by French aerospace company Dassault Aviation, are among the most advanced in the world.
"This historic Rafale deal, worth 16.6 billion euros (about Dh63.5 billion), is one of the most prominent defence deals in the history of UAE-French relations. It includes the production of 80 fighter jets equipped with the latest defence technologies."
The acquisition of these advanced aircraft is part of a broader initiative to modernise the UAE’s military forces. The Ministry of Defence emphasised that the purchase aligns with the country’s efforts to stay ahead of security challenges on both regional and international fronts.
"The acquisition of this type of aircraft comes as part of a comprehensive plan to modernise the UAE's defence capabilities, in line with security changes and challenges at the regional and international levels."
An official ceremony was held in Paris to mark the occasion, attended by Mohammed bin Mubarak Al Mazrouei, Minister of State for Defence Affairs, along with senior officials from both countries.
Highlighting the UAE’s commitment to military advancement, Al Mazrouei said, "Our armed forces, thanks to the unlimited support of President Sheikh Mohamed, have achieved a qualitative leap in terms of equipment and modernisation, making them among the most efficient and prepared forces in the region and the world".
The UAE’s defence strategy focuses on acquiring top military technology to adapt to evolving global security dynamics.
"The strategy of the armed forces focuses on the careful acquisition of advanced weapons and equipment, aligned with the evolving dynamics of future conflicts and technological advancements," Al Mazrouei added.
With this delivery, the UAE continues to reinforce its position as a key player in global defence, ensuring its armed forces remain well-equipped to face emerging threats.