Mid-Year Assessment of Aerospace and Defense Security Situation in the Middle East

Key Chapter Title List

1. Role of the U.S. Air Force in the Middle East and Security Cooperation
2. Defense Industry Expansion and International Cooperation of the UAE's EDGE Group
3. Operational Posture and Market Competition Landscape of Middle Eastern Airlines
4. Regional Air Cargo and Logistics Industry Development Dynamics
5. Advanced Air Mobility and Unmanned Aerial Systems Application Progress
6. Current Status and Capacity of the Aviation Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) Industry
7. Defense Technology Innovation and Precision-Guided Weapon Development
8. Impact of Regional Conflicts on the Aviation Industry and Crisis Management
9. The Rise of Saudi Arabia's Aviation Industry and Riyadh Air's Operational Preparations
10. International Defense Exhibitions and Regional Defense Cooperation Outcomes
11. Aviation Connectivity Technology Upgrades and Application Practices
12. Aviation Talent Cultivation and Educational Cooperation Initiatives

Document Introduction

The year 2025 marks a pivotal turning point for the Middle East, with the geopolitical landscape presenting new dynamics against the backdrop of the Israel-Gaza ceasefire and the de-escalation of the Lebanon conflict. Simultaneously, the regional aerospace and defense sectors are undergoing profound transformations. This report, based on the core content of *Arabian Aerospace* magazine's 2025 coverage, systematically examines the industry development and security dynamics of the region within an environment of coexisting conflict and cooperation.

The report first focuses on the regional security architecture, providing an in-depth analysis of the U.S. Air Forces Central Command's (AFCENT) force deployment in the Middle East, its allied collaboration mechanisms, and the deterrent role of assets such as the F-22A and B-52H. It explores how joint air defense systems and multilateral military exercises support regional stability. Concurrently, it details the technological innovation and international expansion strategies of local defense enterprises like the UAE's EDGE Group, including the research, development, and export of precision-guided weapons and unmanned aerial systems, as well as strategic pathways for global market expansion through joint ventures and partnerships.

In the air transport sector, the report analyzes the differentiated performance of Middle Eastern airlines amidst profit growth and conflict impacts. It focuses on the expansion strategies of hub carriers such as Emirates and Qatar Airways, and the market restructuring driven by new entrants like Saudi Arabia's Riyadh Air. The cargo and logistics section concentrates on the application of new freighter types like the A320P2F and the development of regional logistics hubs, showcasing industry upgrades driven by e-commerce and cross-border trade.

Advanced technology application is one of the report's core topics, covering the regulatory frameworks and practical cases in emerging fields such as Starlink satellite connectivity, electric air taxis, and drone delivery. It also addresses the challenges of capacity expansion, technological upgrades, and talent shortages in the MRO industry, analyzing facility construction and digital transformation efforts by companies like TIM Aerospace.

Furthermore, the report presents the latest achievements in regional defense and aviation cooperation through platforms such as international defense exhibitions (e.g., IDEX) and air shows. It discusses post-conflict aviation network recovery, route optimization, and the construction of crisis management systems. Supported by detailed corporate case studies, data, and policy analysis, the full text provides an authoritative reference for understanding the strategic direction of the Middle East's aerospace and defense sectors.