The UAE Armed Forces are the source of the nation's pride and glory acting as a protective shield of the nation's gains, resources and capabilities, said H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah.

The Sharjah Crown Prince made the statement while attending the enthralling live-action 2nd Union Fortress show by the UAE Armed Forces on Al Khan Corniche, Sharjah, on Friday. Before a huge crowd of spectators, the UAE Armed Forces put on their largest-ever public demonstration in Sharjah that highlighted their role in safeguarding the security of the UAE, its citizens and residents. The show was held under the patronage of H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah.

''The UAE has always been associated with giving, being at the forefront in extending a helping hand to the needy and friends in all circumstances in the implementation of the directives of the rulers of the country, led by President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Our armed forces have stayed the same course, offering ultimate sacrifices in the service of the nation and religion,'' said Sheikh Sultan.

He spoke highly of the country’s gallant military performance, saying, ''Our armed forces today rank among the highly ready armies thanks to directives and support by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces.'' ''Sacrifices of the martyrs for the sake of the nation, right and justice, will remain in our hearts and go down as an honour to inspire generations to pursue the right path.'' Sheikh Sultan also prayed to Allah Almighty to protect the servicemen who are defending the security of the nation on the battlefields.

He congratulated Lt. General Hamad Mohammed Thani Al Rumaithi, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, and top commanders of the army's units and formations for the success of the show.

The show began with a scenario of a VIP convoy coming under attack by the terrorists and the guards handling the situation.

The show also highlighted the distinctive capabilities of the armed forces in terms of its code of conduct, equipment and training to defend the supreme national interests and security in close co-operation with the other security services in the various emirates.

This joint-military exercise showcased the expertise of the armed forces, their readiness, spirit and thorough professionalism in a number of different live-action battle scenarios including air-borne hostage rescues. The exercise also witnessed live-action scenarios that reflected the vast capabilities of the UAE Armed Forces in dealing with different situations including internal security threats, terrorist attacks and hostage extractions in collaboration with other security systems in the UAE.

Brigadier Mohammed Saeed Al Jabri, Chairman of the show's Organising Committee, said the show which involved key units from the ground, sea and air forces and Presidential Guards demonstrated the courage, dedication, sacrifice and high professionalism enjoyed by the armed forces personnel.

''The armed forces will remain the shield and sword that protects our national gains, defends our Union, drives to confront challenges and threats facing our region and the world,'' he added.

In attendance also were H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Salem bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Chairman of Sharjah Media Corporation, Dr. Abdul Rahman bin Mohammad bin Nasser Al Owais, Minister of Health and Prevention, Dr. Abdullah bin Mohammed Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Minister of Infrastructure Development, Lt. General Hamad Mohammed Thani Al Rumaithi, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, Khawla Al Mulla, Chairperson of the Sharjah Consultative Council, Lt. General Saif Abdullah Al Shafar, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, and a number of commanders of the army and ministry of interior as well as senior officials and VIP guests.