UAE: MBZ, Macron on defense cooperation, Rafale F5 and Loyal Wingman drone

31 December 2025

IntelligenceNote

Summary

UAE President Sheikh Mohammad Bin Zayed (MBZ) received French President Emanuel Macron on 21/12/2025

in Abu Dhabi.

During the meeting, they discussed the strategic UAE–France partnership and ongoing collaboration on advanced defense programs, including the Rafale F5 and the Loyal Wingman drone program.

The note provides an update on the talks regarding these programs and highlights the UAE’s position.

Note
UAE in talks with France on Rafale F5 and Loyal Wingman drone
UAE · 17 November 2025
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Note
UAE: Maj. Gen. Al-Shamsi, Bellanger on Dassault’s Loyal Wingman program
UAE · 14 November 2025
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Note
UAE: Plans to procure a wingman fighter drone
UAE · 6 November 2025
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Note
UAE: Major General Al-Shamsi and Bellanger discuss downed Rafale and aerial threats
UAE · 17 June 2025
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Note
UAE: On co-financing the Rafale F5
UAE · 31 October 2024
Subscriber access

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UAE: MBZ, Macron on defense cooperation, Rafale F5 and Loyal Wingman drone

Summary

Related reports

UAE in talks with France on Rafale F5 and Loyal Wingman drone

UAE: Maj. Gen. Al-Shamsi, Bellanger on Dassault’s Loyal Wingman program

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