Defence Minister Harriett Baldwin has revealed the number of a brand new Typhoon squadron set to merge British and Qatari personnel.

The Defence Minister made the announcement at a reception celebrating Qatar’s national day, which was held today in London.

It follows Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson’s visit to Doha last weekend, where he agreed that British and Qatari Air Forces would be collaborating in a deal to supply the middle-east nation with 24 Typhoon aircraft.

Harriett Baldwin revealed that the UK based Typhoon squadron would be named No 12 squadron and that it will temporarily integrate Qatari personnel based at RAF Coningsby.

Defence Minister Harriett Baldwin said:

“Qatar proudly becomes the ninth nation to buy the world’s leading multi-role combat aircraft.

“The formation of a joint squadron means our RAF will take the lead in providing training and support to the Qatari Emiri Air Force as it brings the Typhoon into service.”

The MOD hopes that the move will provide the country with experience on an RAF Typhoon Squadron and speed up their preparation for when their own jets are delivered, as well as reinforcing ties between Britain and Qatar, aiding the fight against terrorism.

The biggest export deal for the Typhoon project in a decade, valued at around £6 billion and sustaining thousands of UK jobs, Qatar is the ninth country to purchase the Typhoon.