Historically smaller and less prioritized than other branches of the armed forces, the United Arab Emirates Navy is now a key focus of the UAE's defense strategy, though it continues to face manpower constraints with a relatively small number of active personnel.
The UAE's naval capabilities are centered on a growing fleet of modern corvettes and offshore patrol vessels (OPVs), acquired through a dual approach of foreign procurement and domestic construction. Key acquisitions include advanced Gowind-class corvettes from France, which provide multi-mission capabilities including anti-submarine warfare, and the Abu Dhabi-class corvette from Italy. These platforms are equipped with modern combat management systems, surface-to-air and anti-ship missiles, and advanced sensors. Acknowledging its personnel limitations, the UAE is also making significant investments in unmanned systems for roles like maritime surveillance and mine countermeasures, partnering with international firms and developing indigenous platforms.
The nation's maritime strategy has evolved from a focus on coastal security to one capable of projecting power into nearby waters, as underscored by the acquisition of a landing platform dock from Indonesia, which represents a substantial leap in amphibious and power projection capabilities, enabling sustained operations far from home ports. The UAE Navy gained valuable operational experience during its involvement in the conflict in Yemen, where it conducted amphibious operations and maritime interception. This experience has helped shape its tactical and operational thinking. The UAE's recent withdrawal from the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) suggests a move towards a more independent naval posture.
An important aspect of the UAE's naval development is its domestic shipbuilding program, led by Abu Dhabi Ship Building (ADSB), part of the EDGE Group. ADSB is constructing the Falaj-3 class OPVs, a stealthy design capable of undertaking a range of missions. The development of an indigenous shipbuilding and maintenance capability is a priority, reducing reliance on foreign suppliers and enabling the UAE to export naval vessels, as seen in the contract to supply corvettes to Angola. This growing industrial base, supported by numerous shipyards, allows the UAE to maintain and upgrade its fleet while also extending its influence through defense exports.
