Eurofighter Typhoon fighters, NH90 helicopters, Hawk Mk 167 aircraft, Al Zubarah corvettes - how Qatar is preparing for World Cup security
Qatar buys arms to ensure security during the World Cup.
Here's What We Know
The year 2022 is different for soccer fans because the World Cup will be held in November and December instead of summer. Qatar, the host country of the Mundial, is preparing to ensure maximum security control of the main soccer tournament of the last four years.
Eurofighter Typhoon
Doha received Eurofighter Typhoon fighters a few months before the start of the championship, and they will operate as part of the 12th squadron from November 21 to December 18. The squadron was established in 2020 and has been conducting regular exercises ever since. It is currently the Gulf country's latest major acquisition, but it is by no means the only one. In addition to the planes, Qatar's airspace will be protected for a month by the Leonardo system with Kronos radars.
Hawk Mk 167.
Along with two dozen Eurofighter Typhoon, the country ordered nine Hawk Mk 167s under a $8 billion contract. Qatar also received some of Leonardo's NH90 helicopters, including for the Navy.
Doha bought four Al Zubarah-class corvettes, two patrol ships and a landing platform in case of a maritime threat. The deal was valued at about $5 billion.
Al Zubarah
Separately, it is worth noting how Qatar will provide security at the stadiums. The country's authorities have agreed with the American company Fortem Technologies to develop methods of fighting against drones. Fortem Technologies offers the SkyDome system to suppress drones with virtually no collateral damage.
Source: The Eurasian Times
Image: Leonardo, Defense Romania, The Aviationist, EDR Magazine(1, 2), Fincantieri, Arab News, Aviation Source