Does UAE have fighter jets?

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has suspended talks with the US regarding a $23 billion deal that involves the purchase of 50 F-35 fighter jets , 18 armed drones and missiles. Here’s why.

Besides Finland and Switzerland, Belgium, Poland, Denmark, Italy, Norway, the UK, and the Netherlands also operate one or more F-35 variants or are awaiting delivery of the aircraft. The latter five countries are among the founders of the F-35 program.

The UAE air force operates mainly American-made F-16 and French-made Mirage fighters . It ordered Rafale jets from France last year. The US and UAE have yet to finalise a $23bn arms deal that includes the F-35 fighter jets.

The U.S. military is stepping up support to the United Arab Emirates after a series of missile and drone attacks launched by Yemen’s Houthi rebels. U.S. General Frank McKenzie, head of the U.S. Central Command overseeing American forces in the Middle East, has been in the UAE to bolster defenses.