UAE: Positioning for sixth-generation airpower

14 July 2026

IntelligenceNote

Summary

Abu Dhabi has begun early strategic planning for the UAE’s entry into the sixth-generation

combat-aircraft ecosystem as its future Rafale F4 fleet matures. Current work focuses on defining post-2040 operational requirements and assessing potential international partnerships.

The following note sheds light on:

The UAE’s long-term force-planning priorities
The standing of future American fighter options, GCAP, and FCAS
Emirati assessments of Chinese and Russian programs
The UAE’s technological, industrial, and sovereignty objectives

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UAE: Positioning for sixth-generation airpower

Summary

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