The State of Qatar, represented by the Amiri Air Force, and the United Kingdom, represented by the Royal Air Force, signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at expanding current partnership between both air forces. The agreement was signed by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defense Affairs H E Dr. Khalid bin Mohammed Al Attiyah and British Defence Secretary H E Ben Wallace. The memorandum includes joint training between the Qatari Amiri Air Force and the British Royal Air Force on the Hawk squadron, in addition to utilizing Voyager aircraft to provide airto-air refuelling for Qatari forces aircraft. H E the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs said the agreement is an important step in the ever growing military partnership that joins Qatari Amiri Air Force and British Royal Air Force. The joint Hawk training squadron is an integral component in increasing inter-operability and coordination between both air forces, leading to closer cooperation and alignment in future military and peacekeeping efforts. HE the British Defence Secretary said that collaboration with their international allies is necessary to “tackle out shared security challenges and our long-standing relationship with Qatar exemplifies this”. “By working together we continue to share skills and expertise whilst promoting global security and driving prosperity at home. “I’m delighted RAF Leeming has been chosen to base the historic second UK-Qatari joint squadron, which recognizes the globally-held high regard of RAF flying training.” It is noteworthy that the squadron w i l l p r o v i d e advanced training for pilots of the Qatari Amiri Air Force and the Royal Air Force, and a Voyager aircraft is expected to arrive in the State of Qatar in early July 2021. Along with the success of the joint Typhoon No. 12 squadron, this partnership will deepen the defence relations between the two countries, and will enhance the ability of the two countries to face common security challenges in the region and contribute to its stability.
