RAF personnel and aircraft have deployed to Qatar to support Qatar Ministry of Defence’s air security operations at the 2022 FIFA World Cup to ensure a safe and successful event for football fans.
12 Squadron, based at RAF Coningsby, is a joint UK-Qatar Typhoon Squadron. It is providing air security alongside Qatar Emiri Air Force fast jet squadrons to support counter-terrorism efforts during the FIFA competition.
The fast jet squadrons are supported by a Royal Air Force Voyager from RAF Brize Norton which is providing air-to-air refuelling capability.
The RAF’s contribution to Qatar’s air security operations is part of a wider UK Ministry of Defence support to the FIFA World Cup 2022. In addition to maritime security capabilities, advanced venue search training, operational planning support, command and control support, and further specialist advice are also provided.
Qatar and the UK share mutual interests in ensuring stability in the Middle East. The RAF’s support to World Cup air security boosts Qatar's ability to tackle our shared security challenges which helps protect the prosperity and security of UK nationals at home and abroad.
The RAF is committed to working with international allies and partners to protect against threats overseas and to promote our values. The RAF’s support to World Cup air security builds upon the strong bilateral defence relationship between Qatar and the UK, exemplified by 12 Squadron, the joint RAF-QEAF Typhoon squadron, which is the UK’s first joint squadron since the Second World War.
