The U.S. government has approved a potential $1.96 billion sale of eight MQ-9B armed drones to Qatar, marking the first time this advanced drone model could be sold to a Middle Eastern country.
According to the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), the deal includes 300 general-purpose bombs, 110 Hellfire missiles, radar systems, radios, and satellite communications equipment necessary for operating the drones via satellite.
The MQ-9B, manufactured by General Atomics, costs approximately $30 million per unit. It is capable of flying at altitudes above 40,000 feet and remaining airborne for more than 30 hours, making it ideal for intelligence gathering and precision strikes.
DSCA stated that the sale is intended to enhance Qatar’s ability to counter land and maritime threats, strengthening its defense capabilities in the region.
“This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by helping to improve the security of a friendly country that continues to be an important force for political stability and economic progress in the Middle East,” the DSCA said in its public notification.
Qatar initially requested the drones in 2020, but the deal faced delays under the Biden administration.
Doha has yet to comment on the sale’s approval. As one of the largest purchasers of U.S. defense equipment, Qatar has previously acquired F-15 fighter jets, Apache attack helicopters, and advanced missile systems to bolster its military capabilities.
The deal still requires final approval from Congress, which has the authority to review or block foreign military sales.
