U.S. and UAE Sign Landmark Defense Agreement to Strengthen Strategic Partnership
Abu Dhabi, May 16, 2025 –
The United States and the United Arab Emirates have taken a significant step toward deeper military collaboration with the signing of a Letter of Intent (LOI) to establish a Major Defense Partnership. The agreement was formalized in a ceremony at the UAE Ministry of Defense Headquarters in Abu Dhabi.
UAE Minister of State for Defense Affairs, His Excellency Mohammed Mubarak Al Mazrouei, and U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth signed the agreement, which outlines a roadmap for expanding military-to-military cooperation, joint defense capabilities, and long-term strategic alignment.
The framework aims to improve bilateral force readiness, interoperability, and foster defense innovation between both countries. A key component of this initiative includes a new collaborative project between the U.S. Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) and the UAE’s Tawazun Council, designed to promote joint research, industrial partnerships, and co-investment in defense technologies.
In a further boost to defense ties, the UAE has joined the U.S. National Guard State Partnership Program (SPP) through a new partnership with the Texas National Guard. This initiative will enhance joint efforts in areas such as air and missile defense, cybersecurity, disaster response, and military operational planning.
The designation of the UAE as a Major Defense Partner underscores the decades-long security alliance between the two nations. It reflects a shared commitment to regional stability, counterterrorism, and promoting global peace and prosperity.
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