UAE Eyes Revival of $23 Billion F-35 Deal if Trump Wins 2024 Election
By Alexander Cornwell
DUBAI (Multibagger) - The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is positioning itself to revive a multi-billion dollar deal involving the acquisition of F-35 warplanes and MQ-9 Reaper drones from the United States, contingent on Donald Trump securing a second term as President in the upcoming 2024 elections. This information comes from several sources familiar with the matter.
The Strategic Importance of F-35 Fighter Jets
The UAE has long aspired to add advanced F-35 fighter jets to its arsenal. These jets are built with stealth technology, which allows them to evade enemy detection. If the deal is finalized, the UAE will become only the second Middle Eastern country, after Israel, to operate F-35 fighters.
The Trump-Biden Contrast
During his presidency, Trump signed off on the $23 billion deal, which also included munitions, following the UAE's establishment of diplomatic ties with Israel in 2020. This agreement, brokered by Trump's administration, marked a significant milestone in Middle Eastern geopolitics.
However, the deal hit a snag under the Biden administration. In December 2021, the UAE suspended talks citing "sovereign operational restrictions" among other issues. Although the Biden administration expressed readiness to proceed, the negotiations remain paused.
Potential Revival Under Trump
Sources indicate that if Trump is re-elected, the UAE will seek to resume talks, urging the new administration to honor the original 2021 agreement. One source stated that the UAE would specifically request Trump to "honor" the deal.
Diplomatic Dynamics
The UAE has been one of the most critical security partners for the United States in the Middle East. UAE's military has fought alongside the U.S. in various campaigns, and American soldiers are stationed in Abu Dhabi. The Trump administration had fostered warm relations with Gulf states, including a visit from UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to the White House in 2017.
In contrast, Sheikh Mohammed has not visited the White House during the Biden administration, although he met President Biden in Jeddah in 2022.
Regional Security and U.S. Concerns
The Biden administration has also considered the sale of F-35s to Saudi Arabia, tied to a potential bilateral defense treaty and diplomatic recognition of Israel by Riyadh. U.S. lawmakers have expressed concerns that UAE's acquisition of F-35s could undermine Israel's military advantage. However, Emirati officials argue that their diplomatic ties with Israel should mitigate these concerns.
The China Factor
Another layer of complexity is the UAE's strengthening economic and military ties with China. The UAE's use of Chinese technology in its communications infrastructure and joint air force drills with China have raised U.S. security concerns, particularly regarding the potential jeopardization of American military systems.
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Breaking Down the Impact
What is this about?
- The UAE wants to revive a paused $23 billion deal with the U.S. for F-35 jets and MQ-9 drones if Trump wins the 2024 election.
Why is it important?
- The F-35 is a highly advanced fighter jet with stealth capabilities. The deal would significantly enhance UAE's military strength and make it the second Middle Eastern country to operate these jets after Israel.
What's the historical context?
- Trump approved the deal in 2021 following UAE's diplomatic ties with Israel. Talks stalled under Biden's administration due to disagreements.
What are the geopolitical implications?
- The deal could shift the balance of power in the Middle East and affect U.S.-UAE relations, especially considering UAE's closer ties with China.
How does this affect you?
- For investors, the resumption of this deal could impact defense stocks and geopolitical stability in the Middle East, influencing global markets.
Bottom Line
- The outcome of the 2024 U.S. presidential election could reignite a significant defense deal between the U.S. and UAE, impacting regional security and diplomatic relations.