The United States State Department has approved a foreign military sale of AN/TPQ-50 Radar Systems and associated equipment to the Government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The $85m deal, certified by the Defense Security Cooperation Agency, aims to enhance the UAE's defence capabilities, fortify infrastructure, and foster regional stability.
The State Department's recent approval signals a moment as the United Arab Emirates gears up to acquire eighteen AN/TPQ-50 Radar Systems designed for man-portable use. The package includes a range of components such as Computer Digital Military Laptop Radar Control Display units, 107mm High Explosive rockets (for CONUS testing only), and a 5kW Advanced Medium Mobile Power Source (AMMPS) Trailer-Mounted, Diesel Engine Driven Power Unit PU-2001, among others.
With an estimated cost of $85m, the sale aligns with US foreign policy objectives, recognising the UAE as a key regional partner contributing to political stability and economic progress in the Middle East.
GlobalData's intelligence on "The Land-Based Military Radar Market 2019–2029" outlines that countries such as Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Israel have long-standing defence cooperation agreements with the US government.
The proposed sale serves a dual purpose by reinforcing the UAE's defence capabilities against rocket, artillery, and mortar threats and unmanned aerial system risks. By deploying the AN/TPQ-50 radars, the UAE aims to swiftly recognise and counter potential threats from hostile nations or agents. The move bolsters security measures and solidifies diplomatic and military ties between the United States and the UAE.
With the proliferation of ballistic missile technology in the region, countries such as Saudi Arabia, Israel, and the UAE have invested in acquiring and developing advanced missile defence systems, according to GlobalData's "Thematic Intelligence: Missile Defense" report.
SRC Inc., based in Syracuse, NY, is designated as the principal contractor for this endeavour. The sale implementation is expected to be seamless, with no permanent assignment of additional US Government or contractor representatives to the UAE. Short-term travel will be necessary for operator/maintainer training, system integration and check-out/quality assurance, and testing activities.
EDGE, the UAE's technology and defence conglomerate, secured multiple defence contracts at the Dubai Airshow 2023. An example includes Lahab Defence Systems, an entity under EDGE, receiving a Dh4.1bn ($1.1bn) contract from the UAE Ministry of Defence for the production and delivery of MK 81, MK 82, MK 83, and MK 84 general-purpose aircraft munitions.
