MERCI BEAUCOUP

UAE displays first combat jet from $17.4 billion deal with France

The purchase of Dassault's Rafale jets, among the most advanced combat aircraft, is part of a broader effort to bolster the UAE's defense capabilities

Inauguration ceremony in Paris for the UAE's combat aircraft order (WAM)

The UAE’s Ministry of Defense displayed its first Dassault fighter jet at a ceremony in Paris that inaugurating its $17.4 million deal with the French aviation firm.

The acquisition of 80 Rafale jets, among the most advanced combat aircraft, is part of a broader effort to upgrade the UAE’s defense capabilities.

“Our strategy focuses on acquiring the most advanced weaponry and systems that align with the evolving nature of modern warfare and technological advancements,” Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister of State for Defense Affairs, said at the ceremony on Thursday.

Al Mazrouei was joined at the event by French Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu and other representatives from France and the UAE.