Military plans are built on preparing for the worst-case scenarios, but sometimes the best-case scenarios appear. For a long time, the US has sought military facilities that provide both strategic positioning and operational capabilities without excessive financial burden. Al Udeid Air Force Base in Qatar represents that. It is a modern and fully operational hub that supports US military operations in the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia.
However, despite its strategic value, some critics have proposed Relocation Centcom's Forward Headquarters. No clear alternatives have been proposed, and such a move will result in enormous financial and operational costs at a time when regional stability is becoming increasingly vulnerable.
Al Udeid is the largest US military base in the region and hosts nearly 11,000 American troops.andOver 100 aircraftincluding strategic bombers, tankers and surveillance assets. Its long, well-maintained runway allows for rapid deployment and is a key component of the projection of US forces. The bass playedA pivotal role in counterterrorism operations: air campaigns in Iraq and AfghanistanandHumanitarian duties including the evacuation of Kabul in 2021.
Qatar's investment in Al-Udeid saves billions of dollars to US taxpayers while maintaining the base at the forefront of military preparation. For many years,Qatar spent over $8 billionInfrastructure upgrades including$1.4 billionOn improving military housing and airfields. In addition to hosting the base, Qatar remains a major regional partner, working with the US on counterterrorism efforts, intelligence sharing and weapons procurement. Qatar, who purchased the F-15 from Boeing only, has it.It has produced tens of thousands of American jobs.
In addition to hosting the Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar has significantly strengthened its military capabilities through heavily invested in the US defense system. A notable example is US State Department approvalQatar purchased eight MQ-9B Predator drones. This is a nearly $2 billion deal.The acquisition includes advanced ammunition and equipment, as well as strengthening Qatar's surveillance and strike capabilities.
These procurements not only strengthen Qatar's defense infrastructure, but also deepen the strategic partnership between the US and Qatar. By integrating advanced US military technology, Qatar will strengthen its role as a stabilizing force in the Gulf region.
Furthermore, these defence transactions contribute to the US economy by supporting American employment and promoting industrial cooperation. The continued military cooperation illustrated by these acquisitions highlights mutual commitment to regional security and paves the way for further cooperation in defense and beyond.
More broadly, Qatar's role in the Gulf Cooperation Council is an asset to US interests. The stability of key partners like Qatar is essential as the region faces high security challenges, including tensions in the Red Sea, continued conflict in Yemen and concerns about Iran's impact. The country's diplomatic efforts, such as hostage negotiation mediation and ceasefire talks, further strengthen its importance as a security partner.
Finding a viable alternative to Al Udeid is not only prohibitively expensive, but also risks weakening the impact of the US region at a time when competitors are expanding their presence in the Gulf. Bases are more than just military facilities. This is the basis of the US strategy in the Middle East and an important link to local security activities.
The United States must commit to maintaining a strong partnership with the Gulf Cooperation Council. Aludide represents the tangible, cost-effective and strategically invincible element of that approach. Disrupting it will undermine America's ability to respond to future crises in one of the world's most unstable regions.
Christopher C. Miller, former acting U.S. Secretary of Defense, is an advisor to Highlander Partners, a private equity company.
