Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, chaired the third meeting of the Defence Council in 2025. Sheikh Hamdan emphasised that developing the UAE’s integrated defence capabilities is a national priority, reflecting the leadership’s commitment to an advanced defence system that safeguards national achievements and strengthens security and stability. Sheikh Hamdan noted that the Defence Council is committed to advance programmes and projects aimed at enhancing operational preparedness and integrating advanced innovations. He highlighted the leadership’s commitment to fully supporting the armed forces, ensuring they remain a global model of efficiency and flexibility. The meeting also discussed the progress of programmes and projects focused on strengthening defence capabilities, and driving comprehensive modernisation across the defence sector.