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Combined Air and Missile Defence Coordination Cell in Qatar

  • 14 Jan 2026

On 13th January 2026, the United States and its regional partners have opened a new Middle Eastern Air Defense - Combined Defense Operations Cell at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar to enhance coordinated responses to aerial and missile threats across West Asia.

Key Points:

  • New Coordination Mechanism: The cell has been established within the Combined Air Operations Center (CAOC) at Al Udeid, according to U.S. Central Command.
  • Multinational Integration: The CAOC already hosts representatives from 17 nations; the new cell integrates U.S. and regional personnel for improved information sharing, planning, and joint air and missile defence operations.
  • Operational Role: Personnel will jointly plan multinational exercises, conduct drills, respond to contingencies, and share real-time threat warnings to strengthen regional readiness.
  • CENTCOM Statement: CENTCOM Commander called the initiative a significant step forward in regional defence cooperation, enhancing coordination and burden-sharing across West Asia.