A separate $130 million transaction for maintenance and support of the UAE's F-16 fighter jets was also approved. The announcements come as Trump prepares for a tour of planned visits to the Middle East

The US State Department has approved a potential foreign military sale to the United Arab Emirates worth an estimated $1.32 billion. The deal includes six CH-47F Chinook Block II helicopters, related equipment and logistical support. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified the potential transaction to Congress on Tuesday, which has 30 days to object.

The UAE has also requested sixteen T-55-GA-714A engines, GPS/inertial navigation systems with M-Code, missile warning systems, secure communication radios, M-240 machine guns and a wide range of non-military equipment, including classified software, radar and laser warning systems, high-frequency radios, Comsec terminals, equipment for crew and aircraft survival in hostile or emergency situations, navigation systems and electro-optical/infrared imaging. The agreement also includes in-flight refuelling systems, fire control equipment, ballistic armor, airworthiness support, spare parts, personnel training and technical and logistical support.

The proposed sale is intended to support US foreign policy and national security by strengthening the security of a key regional partner, the United Arab Emirates, which is considered vital to the political and economic stability of the Middle East. The acquisition of the Chinook helicopters will enhance the UAE’s ability to address current and future threats by extending its operational autonomy in search and rescue, disaster relief, humanitarian support and counterterrorism operations. According to the State Department, the UAE will have no difficulty integrating the equipment into its military, and the sale will not alter the military balance in the region. The primary contractors will be Boeing Helicopter Aircraft Company and Honeywell Engine Company.

Further transaction approved: maintenance for F-16 fighter aircraft

Also yesterday, May 12, 2025, the State Department also approved a separate transaction, valued at $130 million, for maintenance and support of the United Arab Emirates’ F-16 fighter jets. This transaction includes additional components, spare parts, accessories, and logistics support. As with the sale of Chinook helicopters, this transaction is subject to congressional review.

Both announcements came as President Donald Trump prepares for a series of visits scheduled for the coming days in the Middle East. While specific details of the itinerary and meetings have not been fully disclosed, the main takeaway is that the tour will focus on strengthening US strategic alliances in the region and discussing joint initiatives for security and stability.

The main purposes of the presidential trip are likely to include: reassuring regional partners of America's commitment to their security in a dynamic geopolitical environment; discussing joint strategies to address regional security threats, such as terrorism and destabilizing activities; promoting economic cooperation and investment between the US and Middle Eastern countries; exploring opportunities for normalization of relations between Israel and other Arab countries, continuing previous diplomatic efforts; and addressing energy issues of mutual concern.

It is plausible that during his trip, President Trump may also discuss with the leaders of the United Arab Emirates the recent approval of the sale of Chinook helicopters and maintenance of F-16s, underlining the importance of bilateral cooperation on defense. In addition, it is likely that the issue of the B-747/8 VIP plane gifted by Qatar to Trump will also be addressed (see AVIONEWS), a topic that has attracted media attention and potentially the subject of diplomatic discussions. The trip represents an opportunity for the United States to reaffirm its active role in the region and to consolidate relations with its key allies.