UK reaffirms defence commitment to Kuwait during senior military advisor’s visit
The United Kingdom has reaffirmed its commitment to Kuwait’s security and long-term defence capabilities during the three-day visit of Vice Admiral Edward Ahlgren, the UK’s Defence Senior Advisor for the Middle East and North Africa (DSAME), marking his second visit to Kuwait this year.
The visit, organized by the British Embassy in Kuwait, comes at a time of heightened regional tensions and focused on strengthening bilateral defence cooperation, maritime security, air defence coordination, and regional stability.
During his stay, Vice Admiral Ahlgren held a series of high-level meetings with senior Kuwaiti officials to discuss the evolving regional situation, the importance of maintaining the current ceasefire, and safeguarding critical maritime routes, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, which remains vital to global trade and energy security.
Vice Admiral Ahlgren was received by Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Jarrah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, where both sides highlighted the strength of the longstanding UK-Kuwait partnership and their shared commitment to dialogue, de-escalation, and regional peace.
The visiting British defence official also participated in a joint meeting with Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces Lieutenant General Khaled Saad Al-Shriaan; Undersecretary at the Ministry of Defence Sheikh Dr Abdullah Meshal Al-Sabah; Commander of the Kuwait Naval Force Major General Saif Al-Hamlan; Director of the Armament and Procurement Authority Brigadier General Sheikh Khalifah Al-Sabah; and Assistant Chief of Staff for Operations and Plans Brigadier General Raed Al-Sakran.
Discussions centered on defence cooperation, maritime coordination, and preserving freedom of navigation in and around the Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing regional uncertainty.
Vice Admiral Ahlgren also visited Kuwait Air Defence Headquarters, where he met Brigadier General Feras Al-Qattan, Commander of Kuwait Air Defence. Talks focused on air and missile defence cooperation, future capability development, and the continued contribution of British personnel working alongside allied partners in supporting Kuwait’s defence readiness.
The delegation was also shown the newly built Air Defence Operations Centre, highlighting Kuwait’s expanding military infrastructure and preparedness.
Commenting on the visit, Vice Admiral Ahlgren said the UK and Kuwait continue to share a trusted strategic partnership built on common security interests.
“It was a privilege to visit Kuwait and engage with such esteemed counterparts. The UK and Kuwait share a strong and trusted partnership founded on mutual respect and a common interest in regional security. Our discussions have been constructive and forward-looking, particularly in addressing the current regional situation and ensuring the safety and security of vital maritime routes,” he said.
British Ambassador to Kuwait Qudsi Rasheed emphasized the UK’s continued support for Kuwait’s defence posture. “The UK remains committed to supporting Kuwait’s security and defensive capabilities. The deployment of UK personnel, equipment and defensive assets reflects our long-standing defence partnership and our shared commitment to protecting Kuwait and all those who live here,” he said.
“During our visit to Kuwait’s Air Defence Headquarters, we saw first-hand the professionalism and impressive capabilities of the Kuwaiti Armed Forces, as well as the close cooperation between British and Kuwaiti teams. Our partnership is focused not only on addressing current challenges, but also on supporting Kuwait’s long-term defence capabilities for the future.”
UK Defence Attaché Captain Neil Marriott said the visit underscored the continuity of the bilateral military relationship. “In light of the current situation, DSAME’s visit reflects the strength and continuity of our longstanding relationship. The productive engagements throughout the visit reaffirmed our shared commitment to continued cooperation and closer collaboration moving forward,” he said.
The British Embassy reiterated the United Kingdom’s commitment to working closely with Kuwait and regional partners to support stability, enhance security, and address shared challenges across the Middle East and North Africa.
