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But president-elect Joe Biden has yet to take a position on the sale.
The long, drawn-out process could present several other obstacles for the UAE in the months and years ahead as the Biden administration examines key details of the $23 billion deal.
Washington and Abu Dhabi must next agree on a letter of offer and acceptance before US defence contractor Lockheed Martin can start the lengthy process of building the 50 F-35s. Three F-35A Lightning IIs assigned to the 4th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron taxi after landing at Al Dhafra Air Base, UAE. US Air Force photo by Staff Sgt Chris Thornbury