The U.S. State Department has approved a potential foreign military sale of MQ-9B remotely piloted aircraft and related equipment to Qatar for an estimated $1.96 billion.
Qatar requested eight MQ-9B drones, along with a comprehensive package of munitions, including Joint Direct Attack Munition tail kits, general-purpose bombs, Paveway II guidance kits, Hellfire missiles and training missiles. The request also includes supporting equipment, such as sensors, navigation systems, cryptographic devices, communication terminals, electronic warfare systems, weapons launchers, spare parts, training and logistical support.
The contractors involved in the proposed deal are General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc., Lockheed Martin, RTX, L3Harris Technologies, Boeing and Leonardo.
According to the Defense Security Cooperation Agency, the proposed sale supports U.S. foreign policy and national security by enhancing Qatar’s security. The U.S. considers Qatar an important partner for stability and economic progress in the Middle East. The sale is expected to improve Doha’s threat deterrence through enhanced intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, target acquisition, and strike capabilities for land and maritime defense.
The agency adds that Qatar will be able to integrate this equipment and services into its armed forces smoothly and that the sale will not disrupt the regional military balance.
The planned drone purchase follows other recent U.S.-Qatar defense and security agreements. In January, the Qatar Armed Forces and Special Forces Command signed a contract with GM Defense to supply its Suburban Shield armored vehicles for diplomatic security and VIP transport. The two nations have also extended U.S. operations at the Udeid Air Base for another 10 years.