The U.S. is sending advanced jet fighters and a guided-missile destroyer to the United Arab Emirates to help it counter an escalating threat from Yemen’s Houthi rebels after the Iran-backed group launched a series of missiles and drones at the Persian Gulf nation.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin told Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the de facto ruler of the Gulf nation, that the U.S. is beefing up its military support “as a clear signal that the U.S. stands with the U.A.E. as a longstanding strategic partner.”