UAE Plans MQ-9 Drones Post F-35 Setback; General Atomics Affirms Separate Deal?

The United States (US) and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are on the verge of finalizing a significant deal to procure 18 MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones, marking the end of prolonged delays and diplomatic obstacles that had hindered the agreement.

Origins of the deal date back to 2020, with the State Department approving the sale of 18 MQ-9B SkyGuardians and associated technology to the UAE, valued at nearly US$3 billion. However, concerns over the UAE’s use of Huawei’s 5G network led to the suspension of the MQ-9 deal and F-35 procurement by the Biden administration in 2021.

Breaking the deadlock, David Alexander, president of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI), provided insights into the progress at the Unmanned Systems Exhibition, UMEX 2024, in Abu Dhabi. The successful separation of the MQ-9 and F-35 procurement issues, as highlighted by Alexander, has been a pivotal step in advancing the agreement.

While acknowledging previous delays due to unresolved issues, Alexander indicated that the path is now clear for the MQ-9 deal to move forward. The US State Department has also expressed commitment to ongoing discussions, signaling a willingness to proceed with the MQ-9 sale.

With the confirmation of the separation of the MQ-9 and F-35 deals by General Atomics, there is anticipation that the UAE could acquire 18 MQ-9B SeaGuardians within the current year. The president of GA-ASI mentioned the submission of a formal letter of request from the UAE in the coming months.

This revival of the deal marks a breakthrough in diplomatic negotiations and opens avenues for exploration on multiple fronts. As the deal progresses, concerns related to Chinese networking technology have been addressed. David Alexander clarified that the MQ-9B operates exclusively through satellite links, emphasizing its security despite the presence of Chinese networking technology.

Last year, General Atomics revealed plans to integrate Emirati EDGE Group missiles onto the MQ-9B SkyGuardian platform, a significant move for enhancing the UAE’s defense capabilities and promoting independence in defense procurement. This integration represents the first instance of indigenous weapons from the region being integrated into a US platform, showcasing the trust placed in Emirati capabilities by the US government.

The prospect of UAE-made munitions on the MQ-9 platform holds promise beyond the Emirates, potentially offering alternative supply options for nations seeking alternatives to Western weaponry. If the MQ-9 deal materializes, General Atomics will oversee platform production in the US, with missile integration and testing taking place in the UAE.

Despite recent scrutiny over the MQ-9B’s vulnerabilities in contested environments, experts view it as a game-changer for the UAE, enhancing surveillance, reconnaissance, and potential strike capabilities, thereby bolstering regional security. This move also reflects the growing demand for drone technology in the Middle East, with General Atomics anticipating interest from other regional actors, including Saudi Arabia. As the MQ-9 deal progresses, it has the potential to reshape defense dynamics in the region, positioning the UAE as a critical player in unmanned aerial systems and indigenous defense capabilities.