The Saudi and British defense ministers agreed last Wednesday in Riyadh to study future cooperation on combat air capabilities and potential industrial projects, and it was an opportunity to reflect on the strength and depth of the partnership between the United Kingdom and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Signing of the Defense Cooperation Plan in December 2022.
According to the government in London, Britain’s Defense Secretary, Ben Wallans, has reaffirmed the UK’s longstanding commitment to working with Saudi Arabia, with discussion How to strengthen bilateral relations in support of stability and regional security.
The two ministers signed a Statement of Intent (SOI) during the visit,” which will initiate a partnership feasibility study to explore how we can A better position for our decades-long combat air relationship into the futureAccording to the joint statement. The two governments affirmed a joint desire for closer industrial cooperation, to develop key capabilities and enhance prosperity in both countries, including supporting the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.
Declaration of intent site It will enhance our combat air relationship between Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom And the Saudi Minister, Prince Khaled bin Salman, indicated our ability to face common security challenges in the coming decades, in a way that supports the aspirations of Saudi Vision 2030.
The scope of the deal was unclear.. As signed, the “Statement of Intent was regarding the participation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the Future Air Capabilities Program.” But this program includes the “Tempest” combat aircraft project, in which Italy and Japan have recently participated.
The British Ministry of Defense confirmed on Twitter that British and Saudi ministers had met in Riyadh “to discuss our continued cooperation to ensure peace and stability in the region,” but gave no further details.
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