The UAE Armed forces showcased extraordinary drills, formations, field operations and combat capabilities during the Union Fortress 3 demonstration, held at Al Ain Airport. - Photos by Ryan Lim
Abu Dhabi - Mock bomb blasts, gunfire and shooting from the modern artilleries, military tanks, fighting jets and helicopters were witnessed at the unique show.
Published: Sat 24 Feb 2018, 9:00 PM
Updated: Sat 24 Feb 2018, 11:39 PM
The Al Ain International Airport was turned into a Hollywood movie-like scene recently, as the UAE Armed Forces demonstrated war-engagement skills, remarkable military power, rapid intervention and security operations to combat terror attackers, during a military show.
The third edition of the Union Fortress took place in Al Ain on Saturday, with thousands of visitors - mostly Emirati families, military and action-force enthusiasts - getting treated to impressive, captivating movie-style show.
Mock bomb blasts, gunfire and shooting from the modern artilleries, military tanks, fighting jets and helicopters were witnessed at the unique show, as the armed forces demonstrated how they fight the enemy on the battlefield.
Sounds of military artilleries, smoke, fire and sand dusts covered the area as UAE's dedicated soldiers showed field experiences and their modern equipment to nationals and residents.
Union Fortress 3, open to the general public, involved several events including a military show that showcased different formations and units of the armed forces highlighting the harmony among them, in addition to carrying out field operations, such as live raids, showcasing the UAE Armed Forces' combat capabilities while performing internal security operations.
Also part of the show was a scene where a VIP convoy was attacked by terrorists and the guards had to handle the situation swiftly and safely. In the scene, a man was engaged after he threw a briefcase containing a bomb near a house where VIPs had just entered. A sniffer dog chased the man after detecting the bomb and stopped him, as soldiers followed to catch him. As a robotic tanker diffused the bomb, more attackers invaded the place and there was an exchange of gunfire between the soldiers and the terrorists, but the VIP convoy was taken away safely after the force killed the attackers.
In another scene, an aerial reconnaissance using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) was demonstrated as well as the opening of a command post compromising multi-armed forces.
Valour on display
The aim of the mega-event, according to authorities, was to demonstrate the advanced capabilities of the valiant armed forces and the courage, dedication, skills and field experience of the soldiers. "These factors enabled the forces to be a protective shield for the UAE, protecting its accomplishments, promoting sustainable development, and preserving the union match in the face of the challenges and threats that plague the region and the world at large," according to authorities.
Union Fortress 3 also focuses on reflecting the advanced capabilities of the country's armed forces and the courage, dedication, skills and field experience of its soldiers.
An air show and a military band performed and entertained the visitors. Children, students, teachers and residents from Al Ain, Abu Dhabi and other emirates attended the event and watched the military field operations, giving them the opportunity to recognise the capabilities of the 'Protectors of the Union' closely.
"This is fantastic. We have a skillful army," said Mohammed Saeed, a 16-year-old Emirati boy. "I liked the tactical skills the soldiers demonstrated to engage the terrorists and rescue the VIP officials safely."
Another audience member, Aisha Zainab, said: "It's really a great show. I now know what our forces go through to defend our nation and we must all be proud of the servicemen."
KT Nano Edit
Don't mess with us
Military might showcased during war games serve as a deterrence to hostile powers. War should be the last resort for any nation but it's wise to be prepared. Don't mess with us, is the message from simulated exercises. The UAE is known for its soft power, and its social, humanitarian and economic activity has made it an attractive destination for all people. As a potent military power, it is second to none in the region. Its forces are nimble and can undertake any campaign. They are well trained, have been in the thick of action, and are always prepared to take on the enemy. The country is safe because they remain alert and awake while we sleep. We owe them a debt of gratitude.
What the public witnessed
> Mock bomb blasts
> Artillery gunfire and shooting
> Displays by military tanks, fighting jets, helicopters
> Demo field operations, live raids
> VIP convoy attack and rescue
> UAV aerial reconnaissance
> Command post opening
> Air show
> Military band performance
ismail@khaleejtimes.com
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