Aircraft
Qatar Seeks New Friends, and Maybe Denel
As tension between the Gulf state and its neighbours continues, Qatar says it has discussed buying into the South African arms company.
Qatar defense minister Khalid bin Mohammad Al Attiyah presented a decorative sword to South African president Jacob Zuma when they met on November 1. (Photo: Qatari defense ministry via Middle East Monitor website)
Qatar defense minister Khalid bin Mohammad Al Attiyah presented a decorative sword to South African president Jacob Zuma when they met on November 1. (Photo: Qatari defense ministry via Middle East Monitor website)

Qatar remains ostracized by its neighbors, a situation that seems to be driving the gas-rich Gulf state to make new investments in defense equipment and companies. Six weeks after announcing its desire to buy 24 Eurofighter Typhoon combat jets, and to strengthen military ties with the UK, the Qatari defense ministry said it is discussing military cooperation with South Africa, including a possible investment in the Denel group.