The United States State Department has authorized a $1.4 billion military sale to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which includes six CH-47F Chinook helicopters and various other equipment. This decision comes ahead of President Donald Trump‘s visit to the Gulf region this week, where he is set to engage in diplomatic talks and explore major business opportunities.
The Bureau of Political-Military Affairs at the State Department announced on Monday that the proposed sale, valued at $1.32 billion for the helicopters, aims to “support the foreign policy and national security of the United States.” The statement outlined that the UAE would use these military assets in search and rescue operations, disaster relief, humanitarian aid, and counterterrorism efforts, according to Barron’s.
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“The United Arab Emirates is a vital US partner for political stability and economic progress in the Middle East,” the officials emphasized in their statement.
In addition to the Chinook helicopters, the sale also includes $130 million worth of components for F-16 fighter jets. The State Department explained that these components would enhance the UAE’s “ability to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity to meet its national defense requirements.”
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Trump’s trip, which includes visits to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE, aims to discuss a range of diplomatic issues in the Middle East. The president is also expected to negotiate several business deals across sectors, including defense, aviation, energy, and artificial intelligence.
The approval of the arms sale has a 30-day window during which Congress can object and block the deal. This military transaction is a significant move in the ongoing relationship between the United States and the UAE, a key ally in the region.
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