Mohammed bin Ahmed Al Bowardi, Minister of State for Defence Affairs, affirmed that the world's nations and armies were facing numerous challenges in the 21st century that involved new threats and patterns of conflict.

He added that groups, militias and proxy wars presented the most dangerous forms of unconventional war for armies, as these groups had access to military weapons and tools that enabled them to engage in violent confrontations with armies.

He highlighted the fact that the UAE was playing a significant role in confronting these challenges and had drafted a systematic strategy to face new developments taking place in military areas.

This was revealed by the Minister of State for Defence Affairs in the Nation Shield magazine before the second conference of the Ministry of Defence. The event, entitled 'Leaders’ Conference for the 21st Century Wars', will be held under the patronage of the Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, on Sunday, 22nd October.

The interview addressed the importance and goals of this event, especially as it provides added value to the knowledge of the leaders and the institutions concerned with national security in the country. The conference will also tackle developments witnessed in the military sector this century.