Qatar Set to Establish Air Force Facility in Idaho

Sat Oct 11 2025 18:56:30 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The U.S. Defense Secretary announces an agreement with Qatar to build an air force training facility in Idaho, enhancing military collaboration between the two nations.

In a significant development for U.S.-Qatar relations, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed that the two countries have signed an agreement for Qatar to establish an air force training facility in Idaho. This facility will train pilots on F-15 fighter jets and is part of an ongoing partnership that deepens military collaboration. The announcement comes amidst broader geopolitical discussions, including Qatar's role in mediating regional conflicts.

The US has finalized an agreement that will allow Qatar to build an air force facility in Idaho, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has announced.

He stated that the facility—where pilots from the Gulf state would be trained to fly F-15 fighter jets—will be established at the Mountain Home Airbase in Idaho.

It's just another example of our partnership, Hegseth remarked during a meeting with Qatari Defence Minister Saoud bin Abdulrahman al-Thani at the Pentagon.

Additionally, Hegseth commended Qatar for its critical role in mediating a Gaza ceasefire and facilitating hostage returns, acknowledging the country's involvement in ongoing peace talks between Israel and Hamas.

On Friday, Hegseth noted that he was proud that today we're signing a letter of acceptance to build a Qatari Emiri Air Force Facility at the Mountain Home Airbase in Idaho, enhancing our combined training and interoperability, indicating a deepening military relationship.

While specific details about the number of Qatari F-15s to be stationed at the facility and its operational timeline were not disclosed, the agreement marks a significant strengthening of military ties between the U.S. and Qatar.

This development follows a security pact signed by President Trump, promising to defend Qatar—a crucial ally in the Middle East—echoing elements of NATO alliances.

Located in Idaho, the new facility will contribute to military readiness and cooperative training efforts, underscoring a strategic partnership amid regional instabilities.