WASHINGTON — Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced Friday that the Pentagon has agreed to host a new Qatari Air Force facility at Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho.
The facility will allow Qatari pilots to train alongside U.S. forces and will host a contingent of Qatari F-15s. Hegseth said the project will strengthen joint training and improve military cooperation between the two nations.
“It’s another example of our partnership,” Hegseth said during the announcement, joined by Qatari defense officials. “Your Excellency, you can count on us.”
Hegseth also thanked Qatar for its diplomatic efforts in recent months, saying the project reflects the depth of the U.S.–Qatari defense relationship. He credited Qatar with playing a “substantial role” in helping broker peace in Gaza.
Idaho lawmakers are expected to respond to the announcement in the coming days.
