Yesterday (29), the British Ministry of Defense announced a series of measures to support the security of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Among the measures taken by the country is the deployment of 12 Squadrons, a joint combat unit made up of British and Qatari military personnel.
The Ministry of Defense will support Qatar with military capabilities to combat terrorism and other threats to the football tournament, which begins on November 21. Measures include maritime security support with the Royal Navy, advanced site reconnaissance training, operational planning and command and control support, as well as specialist consultancy.
In addition, Eurofighter Typhoon fighters from 12 Squadron (also known as the Joint Typhoon Squadron) will be deployed to the country to support the protection of Qatari airspace.
British and Qatari soldiers from 12 Squadron. Photograph: Corporal Babs Robinson/RAF/MoD.
The squadron was formed in 2020 and is based at RAF Coningsby Air Force Base in the east of the country. The unit consists of soldiers from the Royal Air Force (RAF) and the Emirates-Qatar Air Force (QEAF), who are learning to fly and maintain the Typhoon fighter, as part of the Qatari government’s purchase of 24 of these aircraft.
According to the ministry, the squadron has regularly participated in training exercises in Qatar, and the dispatch of combat aircraft during the World Cup coincides with a pre-planned deployment. But the ministry did not say how many fighters would be deployed.
He added: “To ensure that citizens around the world can participate in the World Cup, Britain and Qatar will join their efforts to provide aerial surveillance in the skies above the tournament.” Defense Secretary Ben Wallace said.
FGR.4 Typhoon fighters from 12 Squadron during an in-flight refueling mission. Photograph: Corporal Ed Wright/RAF/MoD.
“I am very happy that our joint squadron of Typhoon aircraft with the Qatari and UAE air forces will be patrolling the airspace during the tournament.”
The UAE-Qatar Air Force supervises aviation security during the World Cup, and carries out the majority of operations. The UK’s contribution will add experience and capacity, gained in part through the UK’s experience at the 2012 Olympic Games, the body said.
“It is evidence of our strong defense relationship and enhances the ability of the UK and Qatar to address shared security challenges – contributing to regional stability and protecting mutual prosperity and security.”, The Ministry of Defense concludes.
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