U.S. Approves $1 Billion Sale of Precision Rocket Guidance Systems to UAE

The United States announced on October 5, 2026, the approval of a $1 billion sale to the United Arab Emirates of up to 10,000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) guidance sections for rockets, according to AFP reports carried by The Express Tribune, Malay Mail and The Times of Israel. The U.S. State Department said the proposed sale will improve the UAE's capability to meet current and future threats by developing and maintaining a strong and ready self-defense capability and improving interoperability with U.S. forces. It added that the sale supports U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives by improving the security of a major defense partner.

APKWS converts unguided rockets into precision munitions that can be used for purposes including shooting down drones, avoiding the use of costly missiles against comparatively cheap aircraft. AFP reports that the UAE and other U.S.-allied Gulf countries have been hard hit by the Iran war, in which Tehran's forces have repeatedly targeted them with drones and missiles. The State Department also announced a separate $400 million sale to Kuwait of repair and return services for Patriot missiles, which AFP describes as playing a key role in countering Iranian attacks in the region.

Sources

Express Tribune (AFP), US approves $1b arms sale to UAE, October 6, 2026, tribune.com.pk Malay Mail (AFP), US approves US$1b arms sale to UAE, October 6, 2026, malaymail.com The Times of Israel (AFP), US approves $1 billion arms sale to UAE, $400 million sale to Kuwait, October 5, 2026, timesofisrael.com