Turkiye and Qatar have officially established a joint air squadron, aiming to enhance coordination, improve interoperability, and bolster both mutual and regional security. The creation of the “Qatar-Turkey Joint Squadron” was highlighted by a visit from General Ziya Cemal Kadıoglu, the Commander of the Turkish Air Force (THK), to Qatar’s Dukhan Air Base last week.
During his visit, General Kadıoglu met with Staff Major General Jassim Bin Mohamed Al-Mannai, the Commander of the Qatari Emiri Air Forces, along with other senior military officials from both nations. The leaders reviewed the progress of training, as well as the latest preparations and facilities at the air base.
The joint squadron is being established at the same military base where Turkiye first set up its presence five years ago, during the diplomatic crisis when Qatar faced a blockade from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Bahrain, and Egypt. During this period, Ankara emerged as a key ally to Doha, leading to deepened bilateral relations, especially in defense and military cooperation.
Although the blockade has since ended, the formation of the Qatar-Turkiye Joint Squadron at the same air base underscores the continued strengthening of ties between the two nations. The partnership is expected to be mutually beneficial, particularly for Qatar’s less experienced fighter pilots, who will gain valuable training from their more seasoned Turkish counterparts.
This new joint squadron represents a significant step in the ongoing commitment of both Turkiye and Qatar to deepen their defense collaboration and work together to address regional security challenges.
