Ahead of U.S. President Donald Trump’s upcoming visit to the United Arab Emirates, the U.S. State Department has approved a $1.4 billion arms and military equipment deal with the key Middle Eastern ally. The announcement was made on Monday by the State Department’s Bureau of Political-Military Affairs.
The approved sale includes six CH-47F Chinook helicopters and related equipment valued at $1.32 billion. According to the statement, the helicopters will support the UAE’s operations in search and rescue, disaster response, humanitarian missions, and counter-terrorism efforts—furthering U.S. foreign policy and national security interests in the region.
U.S. officials emphasized the UAE’s strategic importance as a partner in promoting regional stability and economic development in the Middle East.
President Trump is set to begin a regional tour on Tuesday, which includes visits to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE. Key issues expected to be addressed during the trip include the Gaza conflict, relations with Iran, and potential agreements in defense, energy, aviation, and artificial intelligence.
In addition to the helicopter deal, a separate $130 million agreement for the sale of F-16 fighter jet components to the UAE is also under review. These parts are expected to bolster the country’s air defense capabilities and overall sovereignty.
Under U.S. law, Congress has a 30-day window to raise objections to the proposed arms sales.
