Israel-UAE military and defense cooperation

Leaked documents from Israeli defense contractor Elbit Systems initially revealed extensive negotiations to supply the United Arab Emirates with advanced military equipment. These negotiations included proposals for Hermes 900 drones, intelligence-gathering aircraft, electronic-warfare suites, and air-defense systems such as Iron Dome batteries. The leaks suggested an urgent UAE demand for drones following attacks on oil facilities and Abu Dhabi International Airport in early 2022.

Following these revelations, reports emerged of a formalized and substantial defense partnership between Israel and the UAE. This collaboration reportedly includes the establishment of a joint military defense fund intended for the procurement of advanced technologies, such as hypersonic missiles and anti-drone systems. The partnership is described as a strategic alignment between Emirati financial resources and Israeli military technology to protect energy assets and counter regional threats.