UAE Rules Out Resuming F-35 Fighter Jet Negotiations with U.S.

The UAE cites unchanged technical, operational, and cost considerations as reasons for not reopening talks, regardless of the upcoming U.S. presidential election outcome.

• The UAE suspended F-35 negotiations with the U.S. in 2021 due to disagreements over terms with the Biden administration.
• Despite reports suggesting talks might resume if Trump wins a second term, a senior UAE official confirmed no plans to reopen discussions.
• The UAE had initially sought the F-35, known for its advanced stealth technology, to become the second Middle East nation after Israel to operate the jets.
• Key factors for halting talks include technical requirements, sovereign operational restrictions, and a cost/benefit analysis.
• The UAE official did not comment on the possibility of new negotiations for purchasing armed drones.

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