Global Security Newswire

The United Arab Emirates has given U.S. defense contractor Raytheon Co. an order worth up to $3.3 billion for delivery of Patriot missile defense batteries, along with associated training and technical support, the Boston Globe reported today (see GSN, Sept. 9).

"For 25 years, we have provided advanced technology and innovation to the UAE," William Swanson, Raytheon chairman and chief executive, said in a press release. "Today, we are honored that the UAE government has entrusted us to deliver this unique capability to support the defense of its country" (Chris Reidy, Boston Globe, Dec. 18).

The Patriot would be used to destroy incoming missiles in their late stage of flight, the Associated Press reported. Israel, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia already deploy the U.S.-made weapon.

The United Arab Emirates is also expected to pay up to $7 billion for the U.S. Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense missile shield system (Associated Press/BusinessWeek, Dec. 18).