On December 6, 2024, the Qatari government announced its intention to acquire 12 additional Eurofighter Typhoon fighters, thereby strengthening its military aviation capabilities and deepening defense ties with the United Kingdom. The agreement was disclosed following the state visit of Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, to the United Kingdom, where he met with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. This decision marks a significant step in the growing partnership between the two countries, particularly in the field of defense cooperation.
The contract, valued at approximately £2.8 billion, will benefit the production facilities of BAE Systems in Samlesbury and Warton, ensuring continuity of operations at these key sites. This new order builds on Qatar’s 2017 purchase of 24 Typhoons and complements its diverse fleet, which also includes French Rafales and American F-15QAs. The integration of the Typhoons into the joint No. 12 Squadron, operated by the Qatari Air Force and the British Royal Air Force, underscores their strategic role in strengthening bilateral military collaborations.
Qatar has significantly enhanced its military air fleet over the past decade by adopting a strategy of supply diversification to ensure its security and operational independence. In 2017, Doha signed a €5.6 billion contract for the acquisition of 24 Eurofighter Typhoon fighters from the Eurofighter consortium (BAE Systems, Airbus, and Leonardo), reinforced by an additional order for 12 units announced in December 2024, valued at an estimated £2.8 billion. These aircraft are integrated into the joint No. 12 Squadron with the British Royal Air Force, symbolizing strengthened military cooperation between Qatar and the United Kingdom.