DUBAI – The United Arab Emirates has stated that it does not intend to resume negotiations with the United States regarding the multi-billion dollar deal for F-35 fighter jets, regardless of the outcome of the upcoming U.S. presidential election.
Reports had suggested that the UAE might reconsider discussions about acquiring F-35s and armed drones if Donald Trump were to win a second term. However, a senior UAE government official clarified on September 14 that the factors leading to the suspension of talks in late 2021 have not changed.
The UAE’s decision to halt discussions at the end of 2021 was influenced by technical requirements, operational restrictions, and cost-benefit considerations. The official emphasized that these factors continue to guide the UAE’s current position, and there are no plans to reopen negotiations for the F-35 in the foreseeable future.
The UAE had been interested in the advanced stealth fighter jet, which would make it only the second Middle Eastern country, after Israel, to operate the F-35. The official did not address potential discussions about purchasing armed drones.