The United Arab Emirates has been identified as the mystery customer involved in a record-breaking US$2.3 billion weapons purchase by Israeli defence technology firm Elbit Systems. Amid reports, the UAE is one of the most significant purchases ever contracted.
The deal, formally announced by Elbit in November of last year and characterized by its utmost confidentiality, as the name of the buyer and the systems sold remained unknown. More recent information provided by Intelligence Online reveals that the UAE is the partner of the deal that will be implemented within eight years.
Although Israel keeps technical details classified, the deal is believed to involve advanced systems designed to enhance combat and defense capabilities. Analysts point out that this deal allows for continued strategic engagement with advanced military technology even in this changing environment.
The development has brought to light the increasing defence relations that Abu Dhabi has cultivated with Tel Aviv since the Abraham Accords were signed in 2020. Since then, Israeli defence companies such as Elbit Systems Ltd. and Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd. have become well-represented in the UAE with offices in Abu Dhabi.
Later in the year, the UAE-based Edge Group acquired a stake in the Israeli defense tech firm ‘Third Eye,’ which specializes in anti-drone solutions, exemplifying the rising trend of industrial collaboration.
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This contract reflects the UAE’s broader efforts to acquire the latest defence technologies. In the past few years, the country has secured billions of dollars’ worth of deals at international defence shows.
It has also steadily worked to strengthen its domestic capabilities with support from global partners. UAE officials are yet to comment on the Elbit agreement, but it is likely to help it achieve its goals of deterrence and force modernization, solidifying its position as a leading investor in terms of defense spending in the region.