US EditionFrance Deploys Rafale Jets to UAE Amid Fears of Iranian Attacks
French Rafale jets secured UAE bases after Iranian drone strikes, protecting hundreds of personnel and neutralizing threats, Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said.
- On March 3, 2026, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said France deployed Rafale fighter jets over the United Arab Emirates to protect naval and air bases, with hundreds of navy, air force and army personnel stationed at the Dhafra base near Abu Dhabi.
- After U.S. and Israeli strikes over the weekend, drones struck a French base hangar on Sunday and hit a fuel tank terminal plus two Amazon data centres on Monday.
- Rafale crews were mobilised, and Rafales and their pilots are mobilised to ensure the security of our facilities, carrying out operations to secure the airspace above our bases.
- Diplomatic consultations are ongoing to shape protective measures as exchanges multiply to determine how France can defend itself and protect interests amid broader Middle East regional tensions.
- Iran's targeting of U.S. allies in the Gulf raises economic risks, with officials warning it could drive up energy costs and harm energy markets and the global economy.
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15 Articles
United Arab Emirates considers taking military action to stop Iranian airstrikes
Times of India
The Economic TimesMiddle East conflict: France sends rafales to protect UAE base
President Emmanuel Macron addresses the nation on the Iran war's impact. France is increasing its military presence in the Middle East. This move aims to safeguard French citizens and bases. Fighter jets are deployed in the UAE. A French base in the UAE was hit by a drone. France is taking steps to protect its interests in the region.
Al-Monitor
France deploys jets over UAE to protect its military bases
France has deployed Rafale fighter jets over the United Arab Emirates to protect its naval and air bases against Iranian attacks, Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said Tuesday.France has hundreds of navy, air force and army personnel based in the United Arab Emirates. Its Rafale aircraft are stationed at the Dhafra base near Abu Dhabi."These Rafales and their pilots are mobilised to ensure the security of our facilities," Barrot told the BFMTV b
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