RAF And Qatari Pilots Operate As Joint Squadron For First Time In Qatar

Typhoons from Number 12 Squadron have arrived in Qatar for Exercise Epic Skies.

It is the first time pilots from the Royal Air Force and Qatar Emiri Air Force (QEAF) have flown the Typhoons together as a joint squadron in the country. 

More than 130 RAF personnel have deployed to Doha Air Base to support the two-week exercise.

Pilots from the joint squadron are being challenged in a range of air-to-air, and air-to-surface scenarios.

The government of Qatar has ordered 24 Typhoons as part of a £6bn deal, which also includes nine Hawk jet trainers and a bespoke support and training package.

12 Squadron reformed in 2018 as the RAF’s first joint squadron since the Second World War.

Qatari pilots and ground crew have been learning how to fly and maintain the Typhoon at RAF Coningsby since June 2020.

Wing Commander Chris Wright, Officer Commanding 12 Squadron, said: “Considerable progress has been made since last year’s Epic Skies, with many pilots and engineers from the Qatar Emiri Air Force thoroughly embedded into 12 Squadron.

"The first of the Qatari pilots to begin flying the Typhoon are eager to put their new skills and training to the test, flying alongside their colleagues in a series of challenging scenarios on home turf.”

For Deputy Officer Commanding, Lieutenant Colonel Faisal Al-Ghanim, it was an honour to return to Qatar as part of 12 Squadron.

“This year’s Epic Skies is particularly unique," he said. "I’ve been involved in several of these exercises in the past, but this year is the first time I return home to fly the Typhoon alongside my RAF and Qatari colleagues, wearing the 12 Squadron crest.

“Returning to fly from Qatar at a familiar air base is an absolute privilege, and I look forward to the challenges the exercise brings to our joint squadron.”

Stability in the Middle East is a priority for both the UK and Qatar.

12 Squadron’s joint operational training will boost Qatar’s ability to tackle shared security challenges.

Cover image: Typhoons taking off from Doha Air Base as part of Exercise Epic Skies IV (Image: MOD).