This article is published in Aerospace Daily & Defense Report part of Aviation Week Intelligence Network (AWIN), and is complimentary through Aug 28, 2026. For information on becoming an AWIN Member to access more content like this, click here.
KC-46
The U.S. State Department has approved an offer worth $4.5 billion to export four Boeing KC-46A air refueling aircraft for the Qatari government, the agency said Aug. 20.
The notification to Congress means only that the sale is authorized. Qatar has not confirmed plans to sign an order.
If consummated, the sale would “increase Qatar’s capability to meet current and future threats,” the State Department says in the congressional notification, adding that it would also strengthen the Gulf country’s ties with the U.S. military.
The export clearance could indicate a break by Qatar from a regional trend in favor of the Airbus A330 Multirole Tanker Transport. The latter has been ordered by the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
A deal would also mark a change in Qatar’s aerial refueling posture. The country traditionally relies on U.S. Air Force tankers based in the region for inflight refueling needs.
The proposed export package includes a full defensive suite, including ALR-69A radar warning receivers and Large Aircraft Infrared Countermeasures.
Related Content
