In a significant move to bolster its defense capabilities, the United Arab Emirates has entered into a strategic partnership with the U.S. defense firm Raytheon. This collaboration aims to facilitate the local production of the Coyote counter-drone system, a cutting-edge technology designed to combat drone threats. The agreement was signed with the Tawazun Council, the UAE’s primary authority for defense and security acquisitions, marking a major step in enhancing the country’s military readiness and self-reliance.
Under the terms of this landmark agreement, Raytheon Emirates will transfer technology and partner with Emirati defense companies to manufacture components of the Coyote system. These components will be produced at an assembly and testing facility located in Tawazun Industrial Park, a hub for defense innovation in the UAE. This initiative not only aims to ensure a quicker deployment of counter-drone munitions but also seeks to reinforce the UAE’s domestic defense industry, thus improving its overall defense capabilities.
The Coyote system is known for its versatility and effectiveness in countering a broad spectrum of drone threats. Raytheon’s Coyote effectors are small, low-cost, rail-launched devices that can be used to neutralize both individual drones and swarms. Each Coyote is equipped with a Ku-band Radio Frequency Sensor and is available in three different variants: the kinetic variant (Block 2), the non-kinetic variant (Block 3), and the “Coyote LE SR” which focuses on launched effects. The LE SR variant is particularly capable of precision strikes and can be utilized for various military operations, including electronic warfare, reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition.
The significance of this agreement extends beyond mere procurement of advanced technology; it represents a deepening of the relationship between the United States and the UAE, solidifying the latter’s position as a key defense partner in the Middle East. The collaboration is poised to enhance supply chain resilience and readiness amid rising security challenges in the region.
This partnership comes at a time when the U.S. military is facing increased drone threats in various operational theaters, especially in the Middle East, where attacks against U.S. forces have been on the rise. The U.S. Army has already placed substantial orders for Coyote interceptors, having acquired 600 2c variants in February 2024 as part of its ongoing efforts to counteract these emerging threats.
Overall, the joint production of the Coyote system not only highlights the UAE’s commitment to enhancing its defense capabilities but also signifies a broader strategy to build a robust domestic defense industry through international collaborations. As the region continues to grapple with evolving security threats, partnerships like this one between Raytheon and the Tawazun Council are crucial for maintaining strategic stability and ensuring national security.
