US, UAE conclude 'Iron Union 6' joint military drills

By Ahmed al-Masri and Mehmet Nuri Ucar

ABU DHABI

The U.S. and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Monday wrapped up a two-week joint military exercise, according to local media reports.

The UAE’s official WAM news agency reported that the “Iron Union 6” wargames, which began on Jan. 14, were aimed at improving both sides’ combat readiness and strengthening relations between the two participant countries.

The drills, which were conducted within the framework of the UAE’s “Iron Claw” exercise program, reportedly involved ground forces from both sides.

Last September, the UAE -- a close regional ally of Washington -- hosted similar joint exercises (“Iron Union 5”) with visiting U.S. forces.