Qatar Downs Two Iranian Su-24mk Bombers During Airspace Intercept

Qatar Downs Two Iranian Su-24MK Bombers During Airspace Intercept

Qatar’s Ministry of Defense confirmed on March 2, 2026, that the Qatar Emiri Air Force shot down two Iranian Su-24MK tactical bombers as they approached national airspace. The engagement occurred on the third day of combat operations associated with Operation Epic Fury, also referred to as Roaring Lion. It marks the first confirmed destruction of an Iranian aircraft in flight since the outbreak of the 2026 Iran war.

According to the ministry, the aircraft were intercepted immediately after detection in accordance with established operational plans. The air force conducted the aircraft engagement, while additional defensive actions were carried out across the country the same day.

Ballistic Missile and Drone Interceptions

Qatar reported intercepting seven ballistic missiles and five drones targeting multiple locations. All ballistic missiles were destroyed before reaching their intended targets. Drone interceptions involved both the Qatar Emiri Air Force and the Qatar Emiri Navy Forces.

Earlier on March 2, two drones struck near a power plant in Mesaieed and an energy installation in Ras Laffan Industrial City. Authorities stated that damage assessments were ongoing at the time of the announcement.

The Qatar Emiri Air Force operates F-15QA Ababil, Eurofighter Typhoon, and Dassault Rafale fighters for air defense missions. These aircraft operate alongside ground-based systems, including Patriot and NASAMS batteries. Officials did not specify whether the Su-24MKs were downed by fighter aircraft or surface-to-air missile systems.

Iran’s Su-24MK Fleet and Capabilities

Iran acquired its first Su-24MK aircraft from the Soviet Union between 1990 and 1992. During the 1991 Gulf War, 24 Iraqi Su-24 bombers were flown to Iran and later integrated into the Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force. By 2013, approximately 30 aircraft were reported operational, though some have since been lost in accidents.

The Su-24MK is the export version of the Su-24M tactical bomber, designed for long-range strike missions. It features a variable-geometry wing, twin Lyulka AL-21F-3A turbojet engines, and a maximum takeoff weight of 43,755 kg. The aircraft can reach speeds of 1,654 km/h at altitude and has a ferry range of 2,775 km.

Armament includes a 23 mm GSh-6-23M internal cannon and up to 8,000 kg of ordnance across nine hardpoints. Compatible munitions include guided and unguided bombs, anti-radiation missiles, anti-ship missiles, and standoff strike weapons. The platform has also been used as a launch platform for Iran’s Asef air-launched cruise missile, unveiled in 2023.

The Su-24MK remains one of Iran’s primary dedicated strike aircraft, regularly participating in long-range and night training exercises involving coordinated operations with other aircraft, drones, and air defense units.