Qatar to Build Air Force Training Facility in Idaho, F-15 Pilots to Train in US

Idaho. The United States has finalized an agreement allowing Qatar to establish an air force facility at Mountain Home Air Base in Idaho, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced during a meeting with Qatari Defense Minister Saoud bin Abdulrahman al-Thani at the Pentagon on Friday.

The facility will serve as a training base for Qatari pilots to operate F-15 fighter jets. “It’s just another example of our partnership,” Hegseth said. “The location will host a contingent of Qatari F-15s and pilots to enhance combined training, increase lethality, and improve interoperability. You can count on us.”

The Pentagon did not disclose how many F-15s would be based at the facility or when it would become operational. While Qatar will fund and construct the facility, it will remain under U.S. military control, similar to arrangements with other allied nations.

The development follows a recent executive order by President Donald Trump pledging to use all measures, including the U.S. military, to defend Qatar. The move underscores the strategic partnership between Washington and Doha, which already hosts America’s largest military base in the Middle East at al-Udeid.

Hegseth also praised Qatar for its diplomatic role, particularly its involvement in mediating a ceasefire and hostage return deal between Israel and Hamas, along with Egypt and Turkey. The initiative highlights Qatar’s growing influence as a mediator in the region.

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