U.S. approves potential $4.5bn aerial refuelling aircraft sale to Qatar

The deal includes up to four KC-46A Pegasus tankers aimed at expanding the Qatar Emiri Air Force’s aerial refuelling capabilities and operational reach.The U.S. State Department has approved a potential $4.5bn sale of up to four KC-46A aerial refuelling aircraft and related military equipment to Qatar, according to a statement released by the U.S. Department of State on Thursday.The proposed sale aims to provide the Qatar Emiri Air Force with a dedicated aerial refuelling capability, allowing its combat aircraft to remain airborne for longer and operate over greater distances.“The proposed sale will increase Qatar’s capability to meet current and future threats by enhancing its defense capabilities and interoperability with U.S. and allied forces and reinforcing Qatar’s strategic role in regional security,” the U.S. Department of State said.The package includes up to four KC-46A aircraft and eight Pratt & Whitney PW4062 turbofan engines, four of which would be installed on the aircraft and four retained as spares.It would also include 10 AN/ALR-69A radar warning receivers, 15 Guardian Laser Transmitter Assemblies for the aircraft’s Large Aircraft Infrared Countermeasure (LAIRCM) systems, and eight LAIRCM system processor replacements.Additional equipment and services would include missile-warning sensors, Identification Friend or Foe systems, navigation equipment, spare parts, training, training equipment, technical documentation and long-term logistics and programme support.Qatar has been designated a U.S. Major Non-NATO Ally since 2022.The Gulf state hosts Al Udeid Air Base, which is considered one of the largest American military installation in the Middle East and home to the Combined Air Operations Center responsible for coordinating air operations across the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility.Principal contractors for the deal include Boeing, Pratt & Whitney, RTX Corporation and Northrop Grumman.The U.S. State Department said implementation would not require the assignment of additional U.S. government or contractor personnel to Qatar.