South Korea, UAE Ink Major $35 Billion Defense Partnership Deal

Thursday, February 26, 2026 at 4:17 AM

South Korea and the United Arab Emirates have formalized a defense cooperation agreement valued at over $35 billion. The partnership will focus on military projects involving air defense systems, air force capabilities, and naval operations.

A massive defense partnership worth more than $35 billion has been established between South Korea and the United Arab Emirates following the signing of a formal cooperation agreement, according to a Seoul government official.

Kang Hoon-sik, serving as chief of staff to President Lee Jae Myung, announced the milestone agreement to news media upon his return from the UAE on Thursday. The presidential envoy detailed that the military collaboration will encompass multiple defense sectors including air defense systems, air force operations, and naval capabilities.

The memorandum of understanding represents one of the largest international defense partnerships in recent years, highlighting the growing strategic relationship between the two nations across various military technologies and systems.

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