Tel Aviv, December 20 - Recent reports indicate that Qatar has renewed discussions with the United States regarding the potential acquisition of F-35 Lightning II stealth fighter jets, reviving a bid that stalled approximately five years ago. These talks, described as more substantive than previous attempts, come amid broader U.S. considerations of advanced arms sales in the Middle East, including to Saudi Arabia and potentially others. The F-35, renowned for its fifth-generation capabilities such as stealth technology, advanced sensors, and networked warfare systems, represents a significant leap in air power for any recipient.
Israel, the sole operator of the F-35 in the region with its customized F-35I Adir variant, views these developments with growing concern over its qualitative military edge (QME). This longstanding U.S. policy commitment ensures Israel's technological superiority in regional defense matters. While exported F-35 models to other nations would likely feature reduced capabilities compared to Israel's versions, lacking certain integrated systems and modifications, the proliferation of such advanced platforms could diminish Israel's exclusive aerial dominance. Qatar already fields a modern air force with aircraft like the F-15QA, and adding F-35 jets would further enhance its capabilities.
The renewed Qatar F-35 pursuit aligns with parallel U.S. engagements, heightening Israeli apprehensions about a cumulative erosion of air superiority. In response, Israel's defense establishment is preparing compensatory requests to Washington, potentially including additional F-35 squadrons, advanced F-15 variants tailored to Israeli needs, and expanded munitions access. These measures aim to preserve Israel's strategic advantages amid shifting regional dynamics.
As U.S.-Qatar military ties strengthen, bolstered by the major American base in Doha, the outcome of these F-35 negotiations remains uncertain. Any approved sale would require careful calibration to uphold QME obligations, underscoring the delicate balance in Middle East arms transfers involving F-35 fighter jets and Israel's security priorities.
