The United States has cleared a potential $4.5 billion deal to supply the United Arab Emirates with an advanced missile defence system, according to a statement released by the State Department on Thursday.
The agreement includes the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system along with a sophisticated long-range radar capable of detecting threats from significant distances, including ballistic missiles and drones.
In its statement, the Bureau of Political-Military Affairs highlighted the strategic importance of the sale, noting that “The proposed sale will improve the UAE’s ability to meet current and future threats,” and emphasized that it would enhance the country’s capacity to defend against attacks from multiple directions.
US officials said the approval was granted on an emergency basis, allowing the administration to bypass the standard congressional review process due to pressing national security concerns.
Washington described the UAE as an “important regional partner,” adding that the deal would contribute to maintaining stability in the Middle East.
The package also includes five years of training, maintenance, and technical support to ensure the effective operation of the system. Lockheed Martin Corporation, a major US defence contractor known for its advanced missile and radar technologies, will serve as the primary contractor for the project.
