Tel Aviv: The recent Iranian attacks on targets in the UAE have resulted in a two-headed effort – buying Israeli air defence systems and Indian offensive systems.
The UAE is in a rapid, early-stage talks with India to purchase several flagship indigenous weapon systems. The discussions highlight a major geopolitical shift as the Gulf nation seeks to diversify its military suppliers and bolster its defences.
The initial negotiations with India are about the purchase of the BRAHMOS cruise missile and the Akashteer air defence network designed to integrate multiple radars and sensors for faster threat tracking and response.
At the same time, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has indicated that it wants to buy different defence systems from Israel. This after being attacked by Iran in recent months.
Approximately 550 ballistic and cruise missiles and 2800-armed drones launched from Iran hit the UAE in recent months.
Israel deployed some air defence systems in the UAE to help the Kingdom protect itself from the Iranian missiles and drones. The UAE wants to build its own air defence system, and Israel is considered the preferred supplier. The UAE, according to sources, is interested mainly in air defence, counter-drone, and missile-protection systems.
According to the sources, the UAE already appears to have deepened procurement from Israeli firms, including a reported $2.3 billion Elbit Systems deal, and then relied on Israeli systems during the Iran attacks. Reports in late 2025 said the UAE was the buyer in a $2.3 billion Israeli Elbit Systems contract for aircraft protection systems, with delivery over eight years.
-The writer is an Israel-based freelance journalist. The views expressed are of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of Raksha Anirveda
