The US State Department has approved a possible Foreign Military Sale to Qatar covering up to four Boeing KC-46A aerial refuelling aircraft and associated equipment, with an estimated value of $4.5 billion.
The proposed acquisition would expand the Qatar Emiri Air Force’s aerial refuelling capability and increase its ability to conduct longer-range operations alongside US and allied forces. The notification represents approval for a potential sale and does not mean that a final contract has been concluded.
Qatar has requested four KC-46A aircraft alongside eight PW4062 turbofan engines, including four installed engines and four spares.
KC-46A Package Includes Defensive Systems
The proposed package also includes ten AN/ALR-69A radar warning receivers and 15 Guardian Laser Transmitter Assemblies for Large Aircraft Infrared Countermeasure systems.
Additional equipment would include missile warning sensors, identification friend or foe systems, cryptographic equipment, electronic warfare database support, navigation systems and aircraft components.
Training, maintenance, technical documentation, spare parts, logistics support and US Government and contractor engineering services are also included within the proposed agreement.
The US Government said the acquisition would improve Qatar’s ability to address current and future threats while strengthening interoperability with American and allied forces.
Boeing Among Principal Contractors
Boeing is named as a principal contractor for the programme, alongside Pratt & Whitney Military Engines, RTX Corporation and Northrop Grumman.
According to the US assessment, Qatar is expected to be able to integrate the aircraft and associated systems into its armed forces without difficulty. The proposed sale is also not expected to alter the basic military balance in the region.
If completed, the acquisition would provide Qatar with a dedicated modern tanker capability supporting aerial refuelling, force projection and increased operational flexibility for its combat aircraft fleet.
