U.S. Air Force Reports Encounter with Unidentified Aerial Phenomenon in UAE

A recent mission report reveals a U.S. Air Force encounter with a UAP, described as a glowing spherical object, during operations in the United Arab Emirates.

Published: July 28, 2026
Source agency: U.S. Department of War

airforcereportsencounterwithunidentifiedaerialphenomenon

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Opening summary

S. Air Force highlights a significant encounter with an unidentified aerial phenomenon (UAP) during the ENDURING SENTINEL operation in the United Arab Emirates. This operation, conducted under the auspices of USCENTCOM, underscores the strategic imperative of maintaining vigilance in a region characterized by complex aerial dynamics.

The report indicates that the UAP was detected at 0457Z while the aircraft was returning to base, flying at an altitude of 23,999 feet and a speed of 140 knots over water. The object was described as a glowing hot spherical entity with a cylindrical pole affixed to its underside, which may have reflected light from the water below. The UAP's behavior was notably passive, as it did not alter its course or speed in response to the observing aircraft, leading the personnel involved to assess it as benign.

However, the report also highlights the unknown aspects of the UAP, particularly regarding its propulsion…

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https://www.war.gov/medialink/ufo/release_03/DOW-UAP-D27-Mission-Report-United-Arab-Emirates-October-2023.pdf

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