Amidst the increasing tension with Iran in the Middle East, America has greatly strengthened the security arrangements at its largest military base Al-Udeid in Qatar. Satellite images have shown that America has deployed a large number of fighter jets and Patriot missiles there. This step has been taken at a time when diplomatic and military activity has intensified in the Gulf region. According to recent reports, America is fully prepared to deal with any situation.
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What was deployed at Al-Udeid Air Base?
Planet Labs satellite images show major changes at the Qatar base. The US Army has now shifted the Patriot Missile System (MIM-104) to mobile trucks. This will make it easier to move missiles from one place to another and in case of attack, immediate response can be taken. The list of aircraft deployed at the air base is given below.
Aircraft/Weapon Name Number/Status KC-135 Stratotanker (refueller) 18 C-17 Globemaster (transport aircraft) 7 F-15E Strike Eagle (fighter jet) 17 A-10 Thunderbolt 8 Patriot missile launchers M983 HEMTT on mobile trucks
Trump and Netanyahu’s meeting and Iran’s preparations
Recently there was a three-hour long meeting between Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu at the White House. Iran’s activities were discussed in this meeting and Trump said that he is ready to take tough decisions. On the other hand, Iran has also intensified its security preparations. According to satellite data, Iran has increased the security cordon near its nuclear centers. Besides, Iran’s naval drone carrier Shaheed Bagheri has also been seen active near Bandar Abbas.
Impact of regional tensions and new restrictions
America has made it clear that it wants a complete ban on Iran’s nuclear program. President Trump has signed a new order that will impose heavy tariffs and sanctions on countries doing business with Iran. Deploying an additional 1,000 troops to the Middle East is estimated to cost about $18 to $21 million per month. However, a round of talks has also taken place between the two sides in Oman, which is being said to be a good start.