US and Qatar Finalize Deal to Build Qatari Air Force Training Facility in Idaho
The United States has officially finalized a defense agreement allowing Qatar to build and operate a Qatari Air Force training facility in Idaho. The announcement was made by US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, marking a significant step in strengthening the long-standing military partnership between the two nations.
Qatar to Train F-15 Pilots in the US
According to Hegseth, the new air base will be established at Mountain Home Airbase in the northwestern US state of Idaho. The facility will serve as a dedicated site where Qatari pilots will be trained to operate advanced F-15 fighter jets, one of the most powerful aircraft in the US military arsenal.
“This facility represents another strong example of our enduring partnership and commitment to regional stability,” Hegseth said during a meeting at the Pentagon on Friday with Qatari Defense Minister Saoud bin Abdulrahman al-Thani.
The announcement reinforces Qatar’s growing defense ties with Washington and highlights the Gulf nation’s expanding role in regional and international security efforts.
A Strategic Step in US-Qatar Defense Relations
Hegseth described the facility as a major step in advancing “combined training, interoperability, and joint operational readiness” between the US Air Force and the Qatari Emiri Air Force. He added that the collaboration will strengthen both countries’ capabilities and further integrate Qatar into Western defense frameworks.
“I’m proud that today we’re signing a letter of acceptance to build a Qatari Emiri Air Force Facility at the Mountain Home Airbase in Idaho,” Hegseth stated. “This will host Qatari F-15s and pilots to enhance our combined training and readiness. You can count on us.”
Although no details were given on how many Qatari F-15s will be based in Idaho or when the facility will become fully operational, defense analysts suggest the program could begin within the next two years as construction progresses.
Qatar’s Expanding Role in Global Diplomacy
Beyond defense cooperation, Hegseth commended Qatar’s diplomatic influence in the Middle East, noting the Gulf nation’s “substantial role” in US-led efforts to negotiate a ceasefire in Gaza and facilitate hostage releases. Alongside Egypt and Turkey, Qatar has acted as a key mediator between Israel and Hamas during months of indirect peace negotiations.
“Qatar has proven itself to be an indispensable partner, not only in military cooperation but also in its dedication to peace and stability in the region,” Hegseth emphasized.
The United States views Qatar as a critical ally in balancing regional tensions and maintaining open diplomatic channels with multiple stakeholders, especially amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Trump Signs Executive Order Strengthening US-Qatar Security Ties
Last month, President Donald Trump signed an executive order pledging to use all necessary measures — including military force — to defend Qatar in the event of external aggression. The move represents one of the strongest US commitments ever made to a Gulf ally outside of the NATO framework.
Analysts describe the agreement as an “extraordinary security pact” that mirrors aspects of a NATO-style alliance. The order followed heightened regional tensions after Israeli airstrikes targeted Hamas leaders in Doha, Qatar’s capital, on September 9. The strikes killed several low-ranking Hamas members and a Qatari security official, escalating fears of broader instability in the region.
The executive order reaffirms Qatar’s position as a trusted ally of the United States and underscores Washington’s determination to protect its partners in the Middle East.
Home to the Largest US Base in the Middle East
Qatar already hosts Al-Udeid Air Base, the largest American military installation in the Middle East. The base serves as the operational headquarters for all US air missions across the region, including operations in Iraq, Syria, and Afghanistan.
Al-Udeid has been instrumental in counterterrorism operations, air surveillance, and logistical coordination. It also acts as a critical support hub for US and coalition forces conducting missions across the Middle East.
Earlier this year, the base came under attack from Iranian missiles in response to US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. Although the assault caused minimal damage, it underscored the strategic risks faced by both nations and reinforced the need for closer defense collaboration.
Strengthening Interoperability and Regional Security
The establishment of the new Qatari Air Force facility in Idaho will further deepen operational links between the two nations. Defense officials have highlighted that joint training exercises will focus on tactical coordination, maintenance support, and advanced fighter operations — all essential elements for interoperability between allied air forces.
By training in the US, Qatari pilots will gain direct access to state-of-the-art flight simulators, aerial combat drills, and tactical mission planning under the supervision of American instructors. This initiative will also help Qatar modernize its air force, which has been steadily expanding its fleet of F-15QA and Rafale fighter jets.
“This facility will enhance not just our military coordination but also our shared ability to respond swiftly and effectively to threats,” Hegseth said. “It’s a symbol of our trust and shared commitment.”
A Partnership Built on Mutual Trust
Qatar’s Defense Minister Saoud bin Abdulrahman al-Thani expressed gratitude to the US for its continued support and partnership. “Our countries share a deep commitment to peace, security, and stability. This facility in Idaho will be a new milestone in our defense cooperation,” he said.
He also reiterated Qatar’s dedication to working alongside the US to confront terrorism, safeguard energy routes, and promote regional diplomacy.
Looking Ahead
The new air training facility is expected to serve as a model for future defense collaborations between Washington and its Gulf allies. By investing in shared infrastructure and advanced military training, both nations aim to bolster preparedness against evolving global threats.
As the United States strengthens its defense footprint in partnership with Qatar, this initiative reflects a broader strategy to ensure stability across the Middle East and beyond.