the United Arab Emirates GlobalEye Fleet Update
United Arab Emirates - United Arab Emirates Air Force
| Date | March 13, 2026 |
| Country | United Arab Emirates |
| Force | United Arab Emirates Air Force |
| Conflict | 2026 Iran Conflict |
| Location |
Al-Dhafra Air Base, Abu Dhabi, UAE
24.259770, 54.555383 |
| Aircraft | GlobalEye |
| Change | -1 active |
Description
A United Arab Emirates Air Force Saab GlobalEye airborne early warning and control aircraft, valued at approximately 460 million dollars, was destroyed at Al-Dhafra Air Base near Abu Dhabi following an Iranian drone and missile attack. Commercial satellite imagery emerging on March 15-16 revealed severe structural damage and burn marks on multiple reinforced hangars at the base, including those known to house GlobalEye aircraft. Defense analysts assessed that at least one GlobalEye was destroyed, likely by a Shahed-series loitering munition. The loss reduced the UAE operational GlobalEye fleet from five to four aircraft. No official confirmation has been issued by the UAE government or Saab.
Source: defencesecurityasia.com