The US Air Force Central Command, based out of the Al Udeid Air Base, has a new chief.

Lieutenant General Joseph Gastella formally took over duties from Lt Gen Jeffrey L Harrigian in a ceremony jointly held by Qatari Armed Forces and the US Central Air Command at the Al Udeid Base, reported Gulf Times.

HE the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs Dr Khalid bin Mohamed Al Attiyah, said Qatar and the US had always enjoyed a strong strategic relationship.

He said the Al Udeid Air Base was a great example for the close cooperation between the two nations and their joint efforts to combat terrorism.

“HH The Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, during his meeting with US President Donald Trump in Washington last April, highlighted the strong and solid military partnership between the two countries that has lasted for 45 years. It has been characterised by the continued cooperation to maintain security and safety of the entire region, he said.

Qatar’s defence minister said he would strive to take the strategic relationship between the two countries to newer heights.

“Together we’re stronger and we aim to continue our work with our strategic partners. We’re proud of the work we’re doing together and will continue to seek to strengthen this partnership and push it to new heights,” he was quoted as saying by Qatar Tribune.

The Joint Air Operations Center (CAOC) acts as the nerve centre of the US and allied forces air campaigns in the region and beyond against terrorism.

Al Attiyah recalled his recent visit to the USA and said that the production line of the F-15 ‘Ababil’ fighter jets would enhance the combat capabilities of the Emiri Air Force.