The Qatar Armed Forces have received their first Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft, ready to provide critical support during the FIFA World Cup in November 2022.
The aircraft was handed over at a roll-out ceremony hosted by BAE Systems at its facility in Warton, United Kingdom on August 15, 2022. The manufacturer noted it was delivered on schedule.
The fighter, which will ferry to Qatar later in August, is the first of 24 Typhoons that the country has ordered from BAE Systems. Qatar has also ordered 9 Hawk jet trainers.
Qatar will be receiving support from both British and French partners to secure its airspace during the major soccer tournament, which runs from November 21 to December 18, 2022, in the capital Doha.
“Today marks the latest significant milestone in our partnership with the Qatar Armed Forces and demonstrates our commitment and support as they prepare to host the FIFA World Cup,” commented Tony Gilchrist, Director Business Development, BAE Systems Air Sector, in a press release.
“We are working in partnership with the QEAF to ensure we transfer the skills and knowledge required to support, maintain and upgrade both their Typhoon and Hawk aircraft.”
The ceremony was held under the patronage of His Excellency Dr Khalid bin Mohammad Al Attiyah, Qatar’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs, and in the presence of Commander Qatar Emiri Air Force (QEAF), Major General Jassim Mohammed Ahmed Al Mannai