Gulf defense giants head to Europe
As Gulf states recalibrate after months of conflict with Iran, defense priorities are shifting from emergency procurement to long-term industrial partnerships.
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As diplomats prepare for a meeting in Geneva to mark the US-Iran ceasefire framework and regional attention gradually shifts away from the immediate pressures of war, Gulf states are already looking toward the next phase of their security strategy.
That shift was on full display this week at Eurosatory 2026, Europe’s largest land and defense exhibition, where the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Qatar all arrived with a message that went far beyond arms procurement: The Gulf wants a larger role in the future of Europe’s defense industry.
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