On May 14, 2025, during U.S. President Donald Trump’s official visit to Doha, a significant milestone in U.S.-Qatar defense cooperation was achieved, as reported by the U.S. Government in an official statement released the same day. According to this statement and confirmed by multiple defense news outlets, including the Associated Press, the United States and Qatar finalized a $1.96 billion agreement for the acquisition of eight MQ-9B SkyGuardian unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) by the Qatari Armed Forces.
This landmark deal, signed by both U.S. and Qatari officials, not only strengthens bilateral ties but also marks Qatar’s first procurement of the American MQ-9B drone, a highly advanced and versatile unmanned aerial vehicle designed for modern combat environments.
The MQ-9B SkyGuardian, developed by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, represents one of the most sophisticated remotely piloted aircraft systems currently available. It is a derivative of the MQ-9 Reaper but significantly upgraded to meet NATO airworthiness standards, allowing for integration into civil airspace. The drone boasts impressive technical specifications, including over 40 hours of flight endurance, the capability to operate at altitudes up to 40,000 feet, and full all-weather, day-and-night operational functionality. Its modular payload design allows it to carry a wide range of sensors and munitions, making it ideal for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions, as well as precision strike operations.
The package acquired by Qatar includes not only the airframes but also an extensive suite of weapons and support systems. These comprise 110 AGM-114R2 Hellfire II air-to-ground missiles, 200 JDAM tail kits for converting general-purpose bombs into guided munitions, 300 BLU-111 500 lb bombs, and 100 GBU-12 Paveway II laser-guided bombs. Additionally, the procurement includes cutting-edge Seaspray 7500E maritime surveillance radars, SAGE electronic support measure systems, ground control stations, and comprehensive training and logistics support. This arsenal will significantly enhance Qatar’s ISR capabilities and precision strike potential, especially in the maritime domain and counter-terrorism operations.