US State Dept. approves $4.5 billion tanker deal with Qatar, despite Israeli embargo
Given existing production backlogs and heavy global demand, Qatar is unlikely to receive the aircraft before 2030.
The US State Department has granted permission for a possible $4.5 billion acquisition of four Boeing KC-46A aerial refueling aircraft and associated equipment by Qatar, according to a notification to Congress. This deal is set against the backdrop of Israel's stringent embargo on defense exports to Qatar, a nation replete with oil reserves.
The comprehensive package includes spare parts, ongoing maintenance, and extensive training support. The approval marks an initial phase prior to a formal contract, with no specific delivery timeline in place. Qatar is expected to receive the aircraft no earlier than 2030, given the current production delays and global market demand.
Qatar's air force, currently manned by F-15s, Typhoons, and Rafales, will now be able to execute long-range strike missions beyond its borders, thereby expanding its operational capabilities. This acquisition will offer Qatar the means to conduct long-range strikes far from its territory, a significant shift in its military reach.
The acquisition of these KC-46A aircraft confers Qatar with a strategic advantage against Iran and, simultaneously, a long-range force-projection capability towards Israel, a capability it did not have before. While Qatar has faced attacks from Iran in past conflicts, indicating that this procurement might serve as a deterrent against Tehran, it simultaneously provides Qatar with the ability to project power to Israel.
The United States operates approximately 105 KC-46s, with plans to acquire a total of 283. Japan operates six such aircraft, with approval for nine more.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
