London, 30 October 2025 – The United Kingdom aims to enhance its security through a new defence agreement signed with Qatar. The agreement was formalised during the visit of the UK Defence Secretary to Doha, where he met with the Amir of Qatar, His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.
The new Defence Assurance Arrangement deepens the defence partnership between the UK and Qatar, paving the way for increased interoperability across land, air, and sea. Both countries have committed to enhancing collaboration between their Armed Forces and conducting joint planning for potential threat scenarios.
The agreement highlights the UK’s commitment to supporting Qatar’s defence and strengthening the wider strategic partnership between the two nations. The UK-Qatar partnership extends beyond defence: UK exports to Qatar reached £4.4 billion in 2025, while Qatari investment in the UK exceeds £40 billion, supporting jobs across fintech, life sciences, renewable energy, and cyber security sectors.
Defence Secretary John Healey said, “Qatar and the UK are close partners with decades of historic defence ties. This partnership strengthens the national security of both countries and supports stability in the Gulf region. Today, we build on that proud legacy by starting a new chapter in our partnership, strengthening the bonds between our militaries and defence industries.”
During his visit, Healey also toured Al Udeid Air Base, meeting personnel from the Royal Air Force’s 83 Expeditionary Air Group, receiving briefings on operational developments, and visiting the Combined Air Operations Centre.
The new arrangement builds on the success of the UK-Qatar Joint Typhoon Squadron, the UK’s first joint fighter jet squadron since World War II. This unique partnership provides a foundation to jointly enhance air defence capabilities and strengthen operational cooperation between British and Qatari armed forces.
Aligned with the government’s “Plan for Change,” the agreement demonstrates how the UK’s global partnerships strengthen national security through modernised armed forces and international cooperation while delivering tangible benefits at home through job creation and economic growth.
