The UK remains committed to promoting security and stability in the Gulf region, according to Minister of State for Defence Procurement Philip Dunne.

Dunne heads the UK government delegation to the 2015 Dubai Airshow, which starts today.

“What happens here not only has a direct impact on the national security of the Gulf states… but also the United Kingdom and the safety of our people, which is why it is vital that we work with close allies like the UAE to tackle regional threats such as ISIL,” Dunne said in a statement.

Dunne said that the UK’s strategic alliance with the UAE, however, goes beyond the promotion of security to achieving and preserving prosperity as well.

“This is an important area to do business and UK companies will continue to partner with the UAE for many years to come,” added Dunne.

Around 100 UK companies in the defence, civil and security sectors are exhibiting their products and services at the Dubai Airshow with the goal of identifying potential industrial and joint venture partners.

In addition to Dunne, the UK government delegation to the air show includes Lieutenant General Tom Beckett, the UK’s Defence Senior Adviser for the Middle East; Air Chief Marshal Sir Andrew Pulford, Chief of the Air Staff; Air Vice Marshal Gary Waterfall, Air Officer Commanding Number 1 Group RAF and Stephen Phipson, Head of the UK Trade and Investment Defence and Security Organisation.

The Royal Air Force is providing a Typhoon aircraft for the display programme and a Hawk T2 aircraft on the static line.