DUBAI – The United Arab Emirates has signed an $18 billion mega-contractfor 80 Rafale fighter planes during a visit by French President EmmanuelMacron to the Gulf state.
Reports in French media quoting defense ministry officials said the orderrepresents the biggest bulk purchase of the aircraft since it enteredservice in 2004. In the run-up to the deal, it had been expected that theorder would run to between 30 and 60 of the planes.
The largest-ever weapons contract for export came as Macron is in the stateon the first stop of a two-day visit to the Persian Gulf.
A statement issued by the French presidency cited “This contract cements astrategic partnership that is stronger than ever and directly contributesto regional stability.”
In addition to the fighter jets, the gulf state had also agreed to buy 12Caracal military transport helicopters from Airbus. The gulf state followedthe footsteps of Qatar, which purchased 36 of the jets, and Egypt, whichhas ordered more than 50.
Dassault Aviation, the French aircraft manufacturer, said the UAE is buyingthe upgraded F4 version of its multi-role jet and it will make the UAE airforce the first Rafale F4 user outside France.
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Reports also mentioned that the deal offers a shot in the arm for France’sdefense industry after the collapse of a $66 billion contract for Australiato buy 12 French submarines.
Experts said the inclusion of fighter jets as an ample step up for theUAE’s military capabilities in the oil- and gas-rich region, the fighterjets will significantly upgrade country’s airpower capabilities in terms ofstrike, air-to-air warfare, and reconnaissance.
Paris has deep ties to the UAE, a federation of seven sheikdoms on theArabian Peninsula, particularly since the September 11, 2001, attacks.
