Update – Iran conflict 2026: Qatar claims shoot-down of Iranian Su-24 jets

Qatar says it shot down a pair of Su-24 strike aircraft, an example seen here in Russian service, that had approached its airspace from Iran. (US Navy)

Qatar claims to have shot down a pair of Iranian Sukhoi Su-24 ‘Fencer' strike aircraft, saying on 2 March that the aircraft had been approaching its airspace when they were successfully intercepted.

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) said that the Qatar Emiri Air Force (QEAF) had destroyed the Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force (IRIAF) jets as part of a wider engagement of aerial targets throughout the day. It did not provide further details.

“The Ministry of Defence of the State of Qatar announces that, thanks to … the high level of readiness, and joint co-ordination among the relevant authorities, [the] Qatar Emiri Air Force successfully shot down two Su-24 aircraft coming from the Islamic Republic of Iran. They also successfully intercepted seven ballistic missiles through air defences, and intercepted five drones by [the] Qatar Emiri Air Force and Qatar Emiri Navy Forces, which targeted several areas in the state today,” the MoD said.

“The ministry affirms that the threat was addressed immediately upon detection, in accordance with the operational plan, as all missiles were shot down before reaching their targets. The ministry further emphasises that [the] Qatar Armed Forces possess full capabilities and resources to safeguard the state's sovereignty and lands, and to respond firmly to any external threat,” it added.