DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) – The United States has granted an initial approval for Qatar to procure eight armed MQ-9B Predator drones for its military, an estimated deal valued at nearly $2 billion. This announcement was made early Thursday by the State Department and follows Qatar's persistent efforts to acquire these drones during the Biden administration, during which time the request had not been approved despite Qatar's role as an intermediary for the U.S. with groups like the Taliban in Afghanistan, Iran, and Hamas in the Gaza Strip.
The quick approval under President Donald Trump marks a significant shift in U.S.-Qatar relations, especially considering Trump's earlier stance that supported a four-nation boycott of Qatar during his first term. The U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency explained that this proposed sale would support U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives by enhancing the security of a friendly nation that plays a crucial role in ensuring political stability and economic progress in the Middle East.
As the second-largest buyer of U.S. military equipment after Saudi Arabia, Qatar has spent over $26 billion on various military assets, including F-15 fighter jets and Apache attack helicopters. The U.S. Congress will now review the proposed sale, where lawmakers will have the opportunity to voice their opinions and, in some cases, block such sales.
Under the proposed terms, Qatar will not only purchase the eight MQ-9 drones but also acquire hundreds of bombs and missiles to arm these unmanned aircraft, along with equipment needed to operate them via satellite. The MQ-9 Reapers, priced at approximately $30 million each, are capable of flying at altitudes above 40,000 feet (12,100 meters) and can remain airborne for over 30 hours without the need to land. This type of drone has been utilized by the U.S. military and CIA for operations in various locations across the Middle East, including Afghanistan, Iraq, and, more recently, Yemen.
Interestingly, Qatar's approval comes amidst a delay for the nearby United Arab Emirates, which has been waiting since 2020 for approval to purchase up to 18 MQ-9 drones as part of a broader $23 billion agreement that includes advanced F-35 fighter jets. Trump's relationship with the UAE has been notably close, particularly after the 2020 diplomatic recognition agreement with Israel that occurred under his administration.
This approval for Qatar underscores the ongoing strategic partnerships the U.S. maintains in the Middle East, amid evolving geopolitical dynamics and defense considerations in the region.
