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{{Short description|Combined military forces of Qatar}}
{{Short description|Combined military forces of Qatar}}
{{Infobox national military
{{Infobox national military
| name = Qatar Armed Forces
| name = Qatar Armed Forces
| native_name = {{lang|ar|القوات المسلحة القطرية|italic=no}}
| native_name = {{lang|ar|القوات المسلحة القطرية|italic=no}}
| image = [[File:Seal_of_the_Qatar_Armed_Forces_General_Command.png|centre|170px]]
| image = [[File:Seal of the Qatar Armed Forces General Command.png|centre|170px]]
| alt =  
| alt =  
| caption =  
| caption =  
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| notable_commanders = [[Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani]]
| notable_commanders = [[Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani]]
| age = 18 years of age
| age = 18 years of age
| conscription =
| manpower_data = 2010 est.
| manpower_age = 15–49
| available = 389,487
| available_f = 210,00
| fit = 321,974
| fit_f = 140,176
| reaching = 96,429
| reaching_f = 75,162
| active = 26,550<ref name="The Military Balance 2020">{{cite book|author=International Institute for Strategic Studies|author-link=International Institute for Strategic Studies|title=The Military Balance 2020|publisher=Routledge|year=2020|page=371}}</ref>
| active = 26,550<ref name="The Military Balance 2020">{{cite book|author=International Institute for Strategic Studies|author-link=International Institute for Strategic Studies|title=The Military Balance 2020|publisher=Routledge|year=2020|page=371}}</ref>
*Army 12,500
*Army 12,500
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}}
}}


[[File:Soldiers at Military Parade on Qatar National Day on the 18th of December 2018. Photo by Ijas Muhammed Photography.jpg|thumb|Soldiers at Military Parade on Qatar National Day on the 18th of December 2018.]]
[[File:Soldiers at Military Parade on Qatar National Day on the 18th of December 2018. Photo by Ijas Muhammed Photography.jpg|thumb|Soldiers at Military Parade on Qatar National Day, 18 December 2018.]]
The '''Qatar Armed Forces''' ({{langx|ar|القوات المسلحة القطرية|Al-Quwwat Al-Musallahah Al-Qatariyyah}}) are the military forces of the  [[Qatar|State of Qatar]]. Since 2015, Qatar has implemented mandatory military conscription with an average of 2,000 graduates per year.<ref>"[http://dohanews.co/qatars-national-service-program-puts-new-emphasis-on-military-training/amp/ Qatar’s national service program puts new emphasis on military training] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170728200616/https://dohanews.co/qatars-national-service-program-puts-new-emphasis-on-military-training/amp/ |date=2017-07-28 }}", Doha News. Retrieved 25 June 2017</ref> As of 2010, Qatar's defence expenditures added up to a total of $1.913 billion, about 1.5% of the [[Gross national product|national GDP]], according to the [[Stockholm International Peace Research Institute|SIPRI]].<ref name="milexdata.sipri.org">{{cite web |url=http://milexdata.sipri.org |title=The SIPRI Military Expenditure Database |publisher=Stockholm International Peace Research Institute |access-date=1 January 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100328072123/http://milexdata.sipri.org/ |archive-date=28 March 2010 }}</ref> Qatar has recently signed defence pacts with the [[United States]] in 2002<ref>[https://www.nytimes.com/2002/12/12/world/threats-and-responses-us-and-qatar-sign-pact-to-update-bases.html U.S. and Qatar Sign Pact to Update Bases], December 12, 2002</ref> & 2013,<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2013/12/12/world/middleeast/hagel-lifts-veil-on-major-military-center-in-qatar.html|title=Hagel Lifts Veil on Major Military Center in Qatar|first=Thom|last=Shanker|work=The New York Times|date=12 December 2013 }}</ref> with the [[United Kingdom]] in [https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-and-qatar-commit-to-a-stronger-defence-relationship--2 2020], and with [[France]] in 1994.
The '''Qatar Armed Forces''' ({{langx|ar|القوات المسلحة القطرية|Al-Quwwat Al-Musallahah Al-Qatariyyah}}) are the military forces of the  [[Qatar|State of Qatar]]. Since 2015, Qatar has implemented mandatory military conscription with an average of 2,000 graduates per year.<ref>"[http://dohanews.co/qatars-national-service-program-puts-new-emphasis-on-military-training/amp/ Qatar’s national service program puts new emphasis on military training] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170728200616/https://dohanews.co/qatars-national-service-program-puts-new-emphasis-on-military-training/amp/ |date=2017-07-28 }}", Doha News. Retrieved 25 June 2017</ref> As of 2010, Qatar's defence expenditures added up to a total of $1.913 billion, about 1.5% of the [[Gross national product|national GDP]], according to the [[Stockholm International Peace Research Institute|SIPRI]].<ref name="milexdata.sipri.org">{{cite web |url=http://milexdata.sipri.org |title=The SIPRI Military Expenditure Database |publisher=Stockholm International Peace Research Institute |access-date=1 January 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100328072123/http://milexdata.sipri.org/ |archive-date=28 March 2010 }}</ref> Qatar has recently signed defence pacts with the [[United States]] in 2002<ref>[https://www.nytimes.com/2002/12/12/world/threats-and-responses-us-and-qatar-sign-pact-to-update-bases.html U.S. and Qatar Sign Pact to Update Bases], December 12, 2002</ref> & 2013,<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2013/12/12/world/middleeast/hagel-lifts-veil-on-major-military-center-in-qatar.html|title=Hagel Lifts Veil on Major Military Center in Qatar|first=Thom|last=Shanker|work=The New York Times|date=12 December 2013 }}</ref> with the [[United Kingdom]] in 2020,<ref>{{cite web | title=UK and Qatar commit to a stronger defence relationship | url=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-and-qatar-commit-to-a-stronger-defence-relationship--2 }}</ref> and with [[France]] in 1994.


Qatar plays an active role in the collective defense efforts of the [[Gulf Cooperation Council]]; the other five members are [[Saudi Arabia]], [[Kuwait]], [[Bahrain]], the [[United Arab Emirates|UAE]], and [[Oman]]. Qatar also hosts the largest American [[Al Udeid Air Base|military base]] in the Middle East and in 2017 inaugurated a military attache office in Washington.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2017/06/qatar-diplomatic-crisis-latest-updates-170605105550769.html#qatar-defense-washington|title=Qatar-Gulf crisis: All the latest updates|website=aljazeera.com|access-date=2017-10-24}}</ref>
Qatar plays an active role in the collective defense efforts of the [[Gulf Cooperation Council]]; the other five members are [[Saudi Arabia]], [[Kuwait]], [[Bahrain]], the [[United Arab Emirates|UAE]], and [[Oman]]. Qatar also hosts the largest American [[Al Udeid Air Base|military base]] in the Middle East and in 2017 inaugurated a military attache office in Washington.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2017/06/qatar-diplomatic-crisis-latest-updates-170605105550769.html#qatar-defense-washington|title=Qatar-Gulf crisis: All the latest updates|website=aljazeera.com|access-date=2017-10-24}}</ref>
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[[SIPRI]] states that Qatar's plans to transform and significantly enlarge its armed forces have accelerated in 2014, and in 2010-14 Qatar was the 46th largest arms importer in the world. Orders in 2013 for 562 tanks and 75 self-propelled guns from Germany were followed in 2014 by a number of other contracts, including 34 combat helicopters and 3 AEW aircraft from the US, and 6 tanker aircraft from Spain.<ref>{{cite web|title=Trends in International Arms Transfer, 2014|url=http://books.sipri.org/product_info?c_product_id=495|website=sipri.org|publisher=Stockholm International Peace Research Institute|access-date=18 March 2015|ref=SIPRI Fact Sheet, March 2015|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150319023856/http://books.sipri.org/product_info?c_product_id=495|archive-date=19 March 2015}}</ref> As of 2016, Qatar maintains advanced anti air and anti ship capabilities with deliveries of Patriot PAC-3 MSE Batteries,<ref>"[http://www.janes.com/article/66572 6/lockheed-martin-providing-additional-pac-3-mses-to-us-army-and-upgrading-pac-3-missiles-for-fms Lockheed Martin providing additional PAC-3 MSEs to US Army and upgrading PAC-3 missiles for FMS] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170728120545/http://www.janes.com/article/66576/lockheed-martin-providing-additional-pac-3-mses-to-us-army-and-upgrading-pac-3-missiles-for-fms |date=2017-07-28 }}", Jane's 360. 29 December 2016. Retrieved 25 June 2017.</ref> Exocet MM40 Block 3 and [[Otomat|Marte ER]] anti-ship missiles.<ref>"[http://www.janes.com/article/63403/qatar-signs-for-mbda-coastal-missile-system Qatar signs for MBDA coastal missile system] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170728160602/http://www.janes.com/article/63403/qatar-signs-for-mbda-coastal-missile-system |date=2017-07-28 }}", Jane's 360. 02 September 2016. Retrieved 25 June 2017.</ref>
[[SIPRI]] states that Qatar's plans to transform and significantly enlarge its armed forces have accelerated in 2014, and in 2010-14 Qatar was the 46th largest arms importer in the world. Orders in 2013 for 562 tanks and 75 self-propelled guns from Germany were followed in 2014 by a number of other contracts, including 34 combat helicopters and 3 AEW aircraft from the US, and 6 tanker aircraft from Spain.<ref>{{cite web|title=Trends in International Arms Transfer, 2014|url=http://books.sipri.org/product_info?c_product_id=495|website=sipri.org|publisher=Stockholm International Peace Research Institute|access-date=18 March 2015|ref=SIPRI Fact Sheet, March 2015|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150319023856/http://books.sipri.org/product_info?c_product_id=495|archive-date=19 March 2015}}</ref> As of 2016, Qatar maintains advanced anti air and anti ship capabilities with deliveries of Patriot PAC-3 MSE Batteries,<ref>"[http://www.janes.com/article/66572 6/lockheed-martin-providing-additional-pac-3-mses-to-us-army-and-upgrading-pac-3-missiles-for-fms Lockheed Martin providing additional PAC-3 MSEs to US Army and upgrading PAC-3 missiles for FMS] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170728120545/http://www.janes.com/article/66576/lockheed-martin-providing-additional-pac-3-mses-to-us-army-and-upgrading-pac-3-missiles-for-fms |date=2017-07-28 }}", Jane's 360. 29 December 2016. Retrieved 25 June 2017.</ref> Exocet MM40 Block 3 and [[Otomat|Marte ER]] anti-ship missiles.<ref>"[http://www.janes.com/article/63403/qatar-signs-for-mbda-coastal-missile-system Qatar signs for MBDA coastal missile system] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170728160602/http://www.janes.com/article/63403/qatar-signs-for-mbda-coastal-missile-system |date=2017-07-28 }}", Jane's 360. 02 September 2016. Retrieved 25 June 2017.</ref>


Reports indicate that between 2014 and 2024, Qatar significantly enhanced its military capabilities, with defense spending rising by 434%. These accounts also suggest that a substantial portion of the arms trade during this period was marred by corruption, including instances of bribery.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024 |title=Raytheon’s Dirty Business in Qatar (Sham Contracts) |url=https://corruption-tracker.org/case/raytheons-dirty-business-in-qatar |access-date=2024-12-16 |language=en-US}}</ref>
Reports indicate that between 2014 and 2024, Qatar significantly enhanced its military capabilities, with defense spending rising by 434%. These accounts also suggest that a substantial portion of the arms trade during this period was marred by corruption, including instances of bribery.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024 |title=Raytheon's Dirty Business in Qatar (Sham Contracts) |url=https://corruption-tracker.org/case/raytheons-dirty-business-in-qatar |access-date=2024-12-16 |language=en-US}}</ref>


On November 8, 2024, for the first time a Nato military committee visited Qatar's military education and training facilities.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2024 |title=NATO Military Committee visits Qatar |url=https://www.nato.int/cps/en/natohq/news_230331.htm}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Miller |first=Joe |last2=Chávez |first2=Steff |date=2024-10-16 |title=Defence group RTX to pay $950mn to resolve US charges over Qatar bribes |url=https://www.ft.com/content/06fd1301-64ff-449b-98be-36f11100c3b8 |access-date=2024-12-16 |work=Financial Times}}</ref>
On 8 November 2024, for the first time a [[NATO]] military committee visited Qatar's military education and training facilities.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2024 |title=NATO Military Committee visits Qatar |url=https://www.nato.int/cps/en/natohq/news_230331.htm}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last1=Miller |first1=Joe |last2=Chávez |first2=Steff |date=2024-10-16 |title=Defence group RTX to pay $950mn to resolve US charges over Qatar bribes |url=https://www.ft.com/content/06fd1301-64ff-449b-98be-36f11100c3b8 |access-date=2024-12-16 |work=Financial Times}}</ref>


==History==
==History==
The armed forces were founded in 1971 after the country gained independence from the United Kingdom.
The armed forces were founded in 1971 after the country gained independence from the United Kingdom.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Tossini |first=J. Vitor |date=2022-10-25 |title=The UK's military co-operation with Qatar since 1971 |url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/the-uks-military-co-operation-with-qatar-since-1971/ |access-date=2025-06-24 |language=en-GB}}</ref>


With a personnel strength of 11,800, Qatar's armed forces are the second-smallest in the Middle East. France has provided approximately 80% of Qatar's arms inventory.  
With a personnel strength of 16,500, Qatar's armed forces are the second-smallest in the Middle East.<ref>{{cite book |last1=International Institute for Strategic Studies |title=The Military Balance 2025 |date=12 February 2025 |publisher=Routledge. |location=London |isbn=978-1-003-63076-0 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=olpEEQAAQBAJ}}</ref> France has provided approximately 80% of Qatar's arms inventory.  
Qatar took part in the [[Gulf War]] of 1991, with a battalion at the [[Battle of Khafji]].<ref>''Arabs at War: Military Effectiveness, 1948-1991'', University of Nebraska Press, 2002, {{ISBN|0-8032-3733-2}}</ref> It also hosted the U.S. [[614th Tactical Fighter Squadron]]<ref>[http://www.lucky-devils.net/ The Gulf War with the 401TFW/614TFS Lucky Devils] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141122092921/http://www.lucky-devils.net/ |date=November 22, 2014 }}. Lucky-devils.net. Retrieved on 2011-03-28.</ref> and the Canadian Air Task Group with 26 CF-18s both at Doha.
Qatar took part in the [[Gulf War]] of 1991, with a battalion at the [[Battle of Khafji]].<ref>''Arabs at War: Military Effectiveness, 1948-1991'', University of Nebraska Press, 2002, {{ISBN|0-8032-3733-2}}</ref> It also hosted the U.S. [[614th Tactical Fighter Squadron]]<ref>[http://www.lucky-devils.net/ The Gulf War with the 401TFW/614TFS Lucky Devils] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141122092921/http://www.lucky-devils.net/ |date=November 22, 2014 }}. Lucky-devils.net. Retrieved on 2011-03-28.</ref> and the Canadian Air Task Group with 26 CF-18s both at Doha.


Since the Gulf War, Qatar has pursued a limited program of force modernization. Qatar has spent $12 billion to buy [[MIM-104 Patriot]] [[surface to air missile]]s. In July 2008, the US Defence Security Cooperation Agency announced Qatar's official request for logistics support, training, and associated equipment and services. The total value of the support arrangements could be as high as $400 million.
Since the Gulf War, Qatar has pursued a limited program of force modernization. Qatar has spent $12 billion to buy [[MIM-104 Patriot]] [[surface to air missile]]s. In July 2008, the US [[Defense Security Cooperation Agency]] announced Qatar's official request for logistics support, training, and associated equipment and services. The total value of the support arrangements could be as high as $400 million.


In March 2011, Qatar announced the participation of its Air Force in the enforcement of the [[Libyan no-fly zone]].<ref>[http://gulfnews.com/news/gulf/qatar/qatar-premier-defends-military-participation-1.780653 Qatar premier defends military participation]. gulfnews.com (2011-03-22). Retrieved on 2013-09-26.</ref>
In March 2011, Qatar announced the participation of its Air Force in the enforcement of the [[Libyan no-fly zone]].<ref>[http://gulfnews.com/news/gulf/qatar/qatar-premier-defends-military-participation-1.780653 Qatar premier defends military participation]. gulfnews.com (2011-03-22). Retrieved on 2013-09-26.</ref>
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'''Gaza'''
'''Gaza'''


Following the start of Israeli military operations in the enclave after the [[October 7 Hamas-led attack on Israel]], a significant number of Palestinians in Gaza, estimated at 2.2 million, are now confronted with the imminent risk of famine.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Qatar - Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) {{!}} Defense Security Cooperation Agency |url=https://www.dsca.mil/press-media/major-arms-sales/qatar-terminal-high-altitude-area-defense-thaad |access-date=2024-06-01 |website=www.dsca.mil}}</ref> The Qatari Armed Forces have played a significant role in offering assistance to the Palestinians in Gaza. Thus far, a grand total of 91 aircraft have been dispatched, each laden with numerous tons of much-needed assistance. In a significant development, on April 8, 2024, they accomplished the successful evacuation of the 22nd group of injured Palestinians, marking a significant milestone since the commencement of the Israel-Hamas conflict.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Gulf States Requesting ABM-Capable Systems - Defense Industry Daily |url=https://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/gulf-states-requesting-abm-capable-systems-04390/ |access-date=2024-06-01 |website=www.defenseindustrydaily.com/ |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=admin |date=2013-04-21 |title=Qatari Army orders tanks and artillery systems from KMW |url=https://www.army-technology.com/news/newsqatari-army-orders-tanks-and-artillery-systems-from-kmw/ |access-date=2024-06-01 |website=Army Technology |language=en-US}}</ref>
Following the start of Israeli military operations in the enclave after the [[October 7 attacks]], a significant number of Palestinians in Gaza, estimated at 2.2 million, are now confronted with the imminent risk of famine.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Qatar - Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) {{!}} Defense Security Cooperation Agency |url=https://www.dsca.mil/press-media/major-arms-sales/qatar-terminal-high-altitude-area-defense-thaad |access-date=2024-06-01 |website=www.dsca.mil}}</ref> The Qatari Armed Forces have played a significant role in offering assistance to the Palestinians in Gaza. Thus far, a grand total of 91 aircraft have been dispatched, each laden with numerous tons of much-needed assistance. In a significant development, on April 8, 2024, they accomplished the successful evacuation of the 22nd group of injured Palestinians, marking a significant milestone since the commencement of the Israel-Hamas conflict.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Gulf States Requesting ABM-Capable Systems - Defense Industry Daily |url=https://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/gulf-states-requesting-abm-capable-systems-04390/ |access-date=2024-06-01 |website=www.defenseindustrydaily.com/ |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=admin |date=2013-04-21 |title=Qatari Army orders tanks and artillery systems from KMW |url=https://www.army-technology.com/news/newsqatari-army-orders-tanks-and-artillery-systems-from-kmw/ |access-date=2024-06-01 |website=Army Technology |language=en-US}}</ref>


'''Afghanistan'''
'''Afghanistan'''
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Qatari tank battalion fought in the Gulf war in 1991, their AMX-30s took part in the [[battle of Khafji]]. Qatari contingent, composed mostly of Pakistani recruits, acquitted itself well during the war.<ref>{{cite web|author=John Pike |url=http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/gulf/qatar-army.htm |title=Qatari Amiri Land Force |publisher=Globalsecurity.org |access-date=2015-09-19}}</ref>
Qatari tank battalion fought in the Gulf war in 1991, their AMX-30s took part in the [[battle of Khafji]]. Qatari contingent, composed mostly of Pakistani recruits, acquitted itself well during the war.<ref>{{cite web|author=John Pike |url=http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/gulf/qatar-army.htm |title=Qatari Amiri Land Force |publisher=Globalsecurity.org |access-date=2015-09-19}}</ref>


Qatar signed a contract with the German defence company Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW) for the delivery of 24 artillery systems [[PzH 2000]] and 62 LEOPARD 2 main battle tanks.<ref>[http://www.defence-aerospace.com/article-view/release/144373/kmw-wins-%E2%82%AC1.9bn-contract-to-renew-qatari-armored-brigade.html]{{dead link|date=September 2015}}</ref>
Qatar signed a contract with the German defence company Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW) for the delivery of 24 artillery systems [[PzH 2000]] and 62 LEOPARD 2 main battle tanks.<ref>[http://www.defence-aerospace.com/article-view/release/144373/kmw-wins-%E2%82%AC1.9bn-contract-to-renew-qatari-armored-brigade.html]{{dead link|date=September 2015}}</ref>{{when|date=September 2025}}


The US DSCA announces that Qatar wants to join its neighbor the UAE, and field 2 medium-range [[THAAD]] batteries of its own.
The US DSCA announces that Qatar wants to join its neighbor the UAE, and field 2 medium-range [[THAAD]] batteries of its own.{{when|date=September 2025}}


Their request is worth up to $6.5 billion, and includes up to 12 THAAD Launchers, 150 THAAD missiles, 2 THAAD Fire Control and Communications units, 2 AN/TPY-2 THAAD Radars, and 1 Early Warning Radar (EWR). The USA would also sell them the required trucks, generators, electrical power units, trailers, communications equipment, fire unit test & maintenance equipment, system integration and checkout, repair and return, training, and other support.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/gulf-states-requesting-abm-capable-systems-04390/|title=Gulf States Requesting ABM-Capable Systems|date=2 October 2014|work=Defense Industry Daily|access-date=23 October 2014}}</ref>
Their request is worth up to $6.5 billion, and includes up to 12 THAAD Launchers, 150 THAAD missiles, 2 THAAD Fire Control and Communications units, 2 AN/TPY-2 THAAD Radars, and 1 Early Warning Radar (EWR). The USA would also sell them the required trucks, generators, electrical power units, trailers, communications equipment, fire unit test & maintenance equipment, system integration and checkout, repair and return, training, and other support.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/gulf-states-requesting-abm-capable-systems-04390/|title=Gulf States Requesting ABM-Capable Systems|date=2 October 2014|work=Defense Industry Daily|access-date=23 October 2014}}</ref>
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The Qatari Emiri Navy (QEN), also called the Qatari Emiri Naval Forces (QENF), is the naval branch of the armed forces of the State of Qatar.
The Qatari Emiri Navy (QEN), also called the Qatari Emiri Naval Forces (QENF), is the naval branch of the armed forces of the State of Qatar.


===Qatari Emiri Air Force===
===Qatar Emiri Air Force===
{{Main|Qatari Emiri Air Force}}
{{Main|Qatar Emiri Air Force}}


The '''Qatari Emiri Air Force''' was formed in 1974, three years after achieving independence from Great Britain in 1971. Initially equipped with ex-RAF [[Hawker Hunters]], the air force soon began expansion with six Dassault/Dornier [[Dassault-Breguet/Dornier Alpha Jet|Alpha Jets]] in 1979. Fourteen [[Dassault Mirage F1]] were delivered between 1980 and 1984. After the [[Gulf War]], Qatar's air force infrastructure was upgraded by France for $200 million, leading to the order of nine single seat [[Dassault Mirage 2000|Mirage 2000-5DEA]] multi-role combat aircraft and three two seat [[Dassault Mirage 2000|Mirage 2000-5DDA]] combat trainers in August 1994. Deliveries started in December 1997, and involved the buy back of the remaining 11 Mirage F1s by France that were later sold on to Spain.<ref>[http://www.scramble.nl/qa.htm Scramble on the Web – Qatar Emiri Air Force]. Scramble.nl. Retrieved on 2011-03-28. {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120428094054/http://www.scramble.nl/qa.htm |date=April 28, 2012 }}</ref> The current commander of the Qatar Emiri Air Force is Brigadier General Mubarak Mohammed Al Kumait Al Khayarin.
The [[Qatar Emiri Air Force]] was formed in 1974, three years after achieving independence from Great Britain in 1971. Initially equipped with ex-RAF [[Hawker Hunters]], the air force soon began expansion with six Dassault/Dornier [[Dassault-Breguet/Dornier Alpha Jet|Alpha Jets]] in 1979. Fourteen [[Dassault Mirage F1]] were delivered between 1980 and 1984. After the [[Gulf War]], Qatar's air force infrastructure was upgraded by France for $200 million, leading to the order of nine single seat [[Dassault Mirage 2000|Mirage 2000-5DEA]] multi-role combat aircraft and three two seat [[Dassault Mirage 2000|Mirage 2000-5DDA]] combat trainers in August 1994. Deliveries started in December 1997, and involved the buy back of the remaining 11 Mirage F1s by France that were later sold on to Spain.<ref>[http://www.scramble.nl/qa.htm Scramble on the Web – Qatar Emiri Air Force]. Scramble.nl. Retrieved on 2011-03-28. {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120428094054/http://www.scramble.nl/qa.htm |date=April 28, 2012 }}</ref> The current commander of the Qatar Emiri Air Force is Brigadier General Mubarak Mohammed Al Kumait Al Khayarin.


British pilots in Oman remain on duty with the air force, and French specialists are employed in a maintenance capacity. Nevertheless, an increasing number of young Qataris have been trained as pilots and technicians. The past decade saw Qatar increase its air force with 96 planes from three different countries: the [[McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle|F-15]] from the US, France's [[Dassault Rafale|Rafale]], and the [[Eurofighter Typhoon]] from the UK.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Arms trade corruption – what do we know? |url=https://worldpeacefoundation.org/blog/arms-trade-corruption-what-do-we-know/ |access-date=2024-12-02 |website=World Peace Foundation |language=en}}</ref>
British pilots in Oman remain on duty with the air force, and French specialists are employed in a maintenance capacity. Nevertheless, an increasing number of young Qataris have been trained as pilots and technicians. The past decade saw Qatar increase its air force with 96 planes from three different countries: the [[McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle|F-15]] from the US, France's [[Dassault Rafale|Rafale]], and the [[Eurofighter Typhoon]] from the UK.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Arms trade corruption – what do we know? |url=https://worldpeacefoundation.org/blog/arms-trade-corruption-what-do-we-know/ |access-date=2024-12-02 |website=World Peace Foundation |language=en}}</ref>

Latest revision as of 14:43, 4 October 2025

Template:Short description Template:Infobox national military

File:Soldiers at Military Parade on Qatar National Day on the 18th of December 2018. Photo by Ijas Muhammed Photography.jpg
Soldiers at Military Parade on Qatar National Day, 18 December 2018.

The Qatar Armed Forces (Template:Langx) are the military forces of the State of Qatar. Since 2015, Qatar has implemented mandatory military conscription with an average of 2,000 graduates per year.[1] As of 2010, Qatar's defence expenditures added up to a total of $1.913 billion, about 1.5% of the national GDP, according to the SIPRI.[2] Qatar has recently signed defence pacts with the United States in 2002[3] & 2013,[4] with the United Kingdom in 2020,[5] and with France in 1994.

Qatar plays an active role in the collective defense efforts of the Gulf Cooperation Council; the other five members are Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, the UAE, and Oman. Qatar also hosts the largest American military base in the Middle East and in 2017 inaugurated a military attache office in Washington.[6]

SIPRI states that Qatar's plans to transform and significantly enlarge its armed forces have accelerated in 2014, and in 2010-14 Qatar was the 46th largest arms importer in the world. Orders in 2013 for 562 tanks and 75 self-propelled guns from Germany were followed in 2014 by a number of other contracts, including 34 combat helicopters and 3 AEW aircraft from the US, and 6 tanker aircraft from Spain.[7] As of 2016, Qatar maintains advanced anti air and anti ship capabilities with deliveries of Patriot PAC-3 MSE Batteries,[8] Exocet MM40 Block 3 and Marte ER anti-ship missiles.[9]

Reports indicate that between 2014 and 2024, Qatar significantly enhanced its military capabilities, with defense spending rising by 434%. These accounts also suggest that a substantial portion of the arms trade during this period was marred by corruption, including instances of bribery.[10]

On 8 November 2024, for the first time a NATO military committee visited Qatar's military education and training facilities.[11][12]

History

The armed forces were founded in 1971 after the country gained independence from the United Kingdom.[13]

With a personnel strength of 16,500, Qatar's armed forces are the second-smallest in the Middle East.[14] France has provided approximately 80% of Qatar's arms inventory. Qatar took part in the Gulf War of 1991, with a battalion at the Battle of Khafji.[15] It also hosted the U.S. 614th Tactical Fighter Squadron[16] and the Canadian Air Task Group with 26 CF-18s both at Doha.

Since the Gulf War, Qatar has pursued a limited program of force modernization. Qatar has spent $12 billion to buy MIM-104 Patriot surface to air missiles. In July 2008, the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency announced Qatar's official request for logistics support, training, and associated equipment and services. The total value of the support arrangements could be as high as $400 million.

In March 2011, Qatar announced the participation of its Air Force in the enforcement of the Libyan no-fly zone.[17]

Saudi Arabian-led intervention in Yemen

Script error: No such module "Labelled list hatnote". According to Aljazeera news, in December 2016, Qatar deployed 1,000 ground troops in Yemen to fight on behalf of the ousted president Abdrabbuh Mansur Hadi. Qatari soldiers, backed by 200 armoured vehicles and 30 Apache helicopters, headed to Yemen's Marib province.[18]

The Armed Forces of Qatar have suffered 4 killed and 2 wounded during their deployment in Yemen.[19]

Humanitarian Aid

Gaza

Following the start of Israeli military operations in the enclave after the October 7 attacks, a significant number of Palestinians in Gaza, estimated at 2.2 million, are now confronted with the imminent risk of famine.[20] The Qatari Armed Forces have played a significant role in offering assistance to the Palestinians in Gaza. Thus far, a grand total of 91 aircraft have been dispatched, each laden with numerous tons of much-needed assistance. In a significant development, on April 8, 2024, they accomplished the successful evacuation of the 22nd group of injured Palestinians, marking a significant milestone since the commencement of the Israel-Hamas conflict.[21][22]

Afghanistan

On May 16, 2024, a Qatar Armed Forces aircraft delivered 42 tons of food and shelter from the Qatar Red Crescent Society and Qatar Charity to Mazar-i-Sharif, Afghanistan.Qatar Charity (QC) also sent three aircraft delivering sixty tons of relief goods to Balkh flood victims via the Qatar Emiri Air Force airlift. Additionally, Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS) will build 10 health centers in Afghanistan to serve hundreds of thousands of women and children.[23][24]

Sudan

On August 14, 2024, two Qatari Armed Forces aircraft arrived at Port Sudan Airport, delivering 27 tons of relief aid and shelter supplies to support flood victims in Sudan. The aid was provided by the Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD), Qatar Charity, and the Qatar Red Crescent Society. This is part of Qatar's ongoing humanitarian air bridge to Sudan, initiated in May 2023 in response to the country's ongoing conflict and natural disasters.[25]

Military branches

Qatari Emiri Land Force

File:Allies train in Qatar to thwart terrorism 130430-F-CJ989-002.jpg
Qatar Armed Forces in training.

The Qatar Emiri Land Force is the largest land service branch of the Qatar Armed Forces. Initially outfitted with British weaponry, Qatar shifted much of its procurement to France during the 1980s in response to French efforts to develop closer relations. The tank battalion was equipped with French-built AMX-30 main battle tanks, before later being replaced by German Leopard 2A7's.[26] Other armored vehicles include French AMX-10P APCs and the French VAB, adopted as the standard wheeled combat vehicle. The artillery unit has a few French 155 mm self-propelled howitzers. The principal antitank weapons are French MILAN and HOT wire-guided missiles.

Qatar had also illicitly acquired a few Stinger shoulder-fired SAMs, possibly from Afghan rebel groups, at a time when the United States was trying to maintain tight controls on Stingers in the Middle East. When Qatar refused to turn over the missiles, the United States Senate in 1988 imposed a ban on the sale of all weapons to Qatar. The ban was repealed in late 1990 when Qatar satisfactorily accounted for its disposition of the Stingers.

File:QatarNationalDayArmy.jpg
Qatar Armed Forces in National Day celebrations on the Doha Corniche.

Qatari tank battalion fought in the Gulf war in 1991, their AMX-30s took part in the battle of Khafji. Qatari contingent, composed mostly of Pakistani recruits, acquitted itself well during the war.[27]

Qatar signed a contract with the German defence company Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW) for the delivery of 24 artillery systems PzH 2000 and 62 LEOPARD 2 main battle tanks.[28]Template:When

The US DSCA announces that Qatar wants to join its neighbor the UAE, and field 2 medium-range THAAD batteries of its own.Template:When

Their request is worth up to $6.5 billion, and includes up to 12 THAAD Launchers, 150 THAAD missiles, 2 THAAD Fire Control and Communications units, 2 AN/TPY-2 THAAD Radars, and 1 Early Warning Radar (EWR). The USA would also sell them the required trucks, generators, electrical power units, trailers, communications equipment, fire unit test & maintenance equipment, system integration and checkout, repair and return, training, and other support.[29]

Major Army Units examples

[30]

  • Royal Guard Brigade
    • 1st Infantry Battalion
    • 2nd Infantry Battalion
    • 3rd Infantry Battalion
  • Qatari Army
    • Special Forces Support Group Company
    • 1st Mechanized Infantry Battalion
    • 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion
    • 3d Mechanized Infantry Battalion
    • 4th Mechanized Infantry Battalion (Reserve)
    • Artillery Battalion
      • Artillery Battery
      • Artillery Battery
      • Artillery Battery
      • Artillery Battery
      • Anti-aircraft Battery
  • Armored Brigade
    • Mortar Company
    • Tank Battalion
    • Mechanized Infantry Battalion
    • Anti-tank Battalion

Qatari Emiri Navy

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The Qatari Emiri Navy (QEN), also called the Qatari Emiri Naval Forces (QENF), is the naval branch of the armed forces of the State of Qatar.

Qatar Emiri Air Force

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The Qatar Emiri Air Force was formed in 1974, three years after achieving independence from Great Britain in 1971. Initially equipped with ex-RAF Hawker Hunters, the air force soon began expansion with six Dassault/Dornier Alpha Jets in 1979. Fourteen Dassault Mirage F1 were delivered between 1980 and 1984. After the Gulf War, Qatar's air force infrastructure was upgraded by France for $200 million, leading to the order of nine single seat Mirage 2000-5DEA multi-role combat aircraft and three two seat Mirage 2000-5DDA combat trainers in August 1994. Deliveries started in December 1997, and involved the buy back of the remaining 11 Mirage F1s by France that were later sold on to Spain.[31] The current commander of the Qatar Emiri Air Force is Brigadier General Mubarak Mohammed Al Kumait Al Khayarin.

British pilots in Oman remain on duty with the air force, and French specialists are employed in a maintenance capacity. Nevertheless, an increasing number of young Qataris have been trained as pilots and technicians. The past decade saw Qatar increase its air force with 96 planes from three different countries: the F-15 from the US, France's Rafale, and the Eurofighter Typhoon from the UK.[32]

Its units include:

Rank structure

The rank insignia of commissioned officers.

Template:Ranks and Insignia of Non NATO Armed Forces/OF/BlankTemplate:Ranks and Insignia of Non NATO Armies/OF/QatarTemplate:Ranks and Insignia of Non NATO Navies/OF/QatarTemplate:Ranks and Insignia of Non NATO Air Forces/OF/QatarTemplate:Ranks and Insignia of Non NATO Armed Forces/OF/Blank

The rank insignia of non-commissioned officers and enlisted personnel.

Template:Ranks and Insignia of Non NATO Armies/OR/QatarTemplate:Ranks and Insignia of Non NATO Navies/OR/QatarTemplate:Ranks and Insignia of Non NATO Air Forces/OR/QatarTemplate:Ranks and Insignia of Non NATO Air Forces/OR/Blank
Rank group Senior NCOs Junior NCOs Enlisted

Equipment

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See also

Template:Sister project

References

Template:Reflist

Template:Qatar topics Template:Military of Asia Template:Military of the Arab world

  1. ↑ "Qatar’s national service program puts new emphasis on military training Template:Webarchive", Doha News. Retrieved 25 June 2017
  2. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  3. ↑ U.S. and Qatar Sign Pact to Update Bases, December 12, 2002
  4. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  5. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  6. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  7. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  8. ↑ "6/lockheed-martin-providing-additional-pac-3-mses-to-us-army-and-upgrading-pac-3-missiles-for-fms Lockheed Martin providing additional PAC-3 MSEs to US Army and upgrading PAC-3 missiles for FMS Template:Webarchive", Jane's 360. 29 December 2016. Retrieved 25 June 2017.
  9. ↑ "Qatar signs for MBDA coastal missile system Template:Webarchive", Jane's 360. 02 September 2016. Retrieved 25 June 2017.
  10. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  11. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  12. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  13. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  14. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  15. ↑ Arabs at War: Military Effectiveness, 1948-1991, University of Nebraska Press, 2002, Template:ISBN
  16. ↑ The Gulf War with the 401TFW/614TFS Lucky Devils Template:Webarchive. Lucky-devils.net. Retrieved on 2011-03-28.
  17. ↑ Qatar premier defends military participation. gulfnews.com (2011-03-22). Retrieved on 2013-09-26.
  18. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  19. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  20. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  21. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  22. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  23. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  24. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  25. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  26. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  27. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  28. ↑ [1]Template:Dead link
  29. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  30. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  31. ↑ Scramble on the Web – Qatar Emiri Air Force. Scramble.nl. Retrieved on 2011-03-28. Template:Webarchive
  32. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
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