We have known from early in our stay, here in the UAE, that the U.S. Air Force has a base not far from Abu Dhabi.

It is the Al Dhafra base, on the mainland. Maybe a half-hour drive from Abu Dhabi Island. The name is easy to remember because a soccer team in the Arabian Gulf League has the same name.

We have known USAF personnel — apparently part of the 380th Expeditionary Wing — who have been stationed there. And we also have seen groups of guys of military age and with military haircuts (and heard American accents) in the city, on excursions. Often, at the Mexican food restaurant in one of the malls.

But now we have a Washington Port story about how important the UAE is to the U.S. military in the region, and not just as a host.

But as a combatant, too.

The story puts into context the U.S. relationship with the UAE, which is described as the best America has, at the moment, with an Arab government.

We could have guessed that U.S. officials would make that assessment.

What we did not know, is how important a role the Emiratis play militarily, and in particular against the Islamic State.

The story describes highly skilled UAE pilots, in U.S.-built equipment, taking on any and all assignments, as well as urging the U.S. to do even more … to be more aggressive.

Some U.S. military people are so impressed by the UAE’s military that they refer to it as “Little Sparta” — invoking the name of the Greek city-state that was known for its military prowess, 2,500 years ago.

So, all that military equipment the UAE has bought over the years? According to The Post, they are keen to use it, when a threat to their interests rises. (And the Islamic State would fit that description). If a target needs hitting, it sounds as if the Emiratis are keen to get busy.

Meanwhile, on the streets of the capital conversation about the Yanks on the base in the desert probably will remain muted. Appearances in the capital of USAF personal on a day off will remain rare.

But a long story in the Washington Post is likely to make the U.S.-UAE military relationship much more public.