The newly established Middle Eastern Air Defence – Combined Defence Operations Cell (MEAD-CDOC) is integrated into the existing Combined Air Operations Centre (CAOC) at Al Udeid. While the CAOC has long served as a multinational hub for 17 nations, the new unit is dedicated specifically to real-time warning dissemination and the operational coordination of joint aerial responses.
“A Significant Step Forward”
The facility’s opening follows a series of defence pacts between the United States and Gulf nations, including the creation of joint command posts in Bahrain and Qatar late last year.
“This is a significant step forward in strengthening regional defence cooperation,” said Adm. Brad Cooper, commander of U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM). “This cell will improve how regional forces coordinate and share air and missile defence responsibilities across the Middle East.”
The centre is operated by U.S. Air Forces Central (AFCENT) alongside regional military personnel, focusing on three core objectives:
- Threat Intelligence: Accelerating the transmission of warnings across partner defence networks.
- Integrated Drills: Designing and leading large-scale multinational combat exercises.
- Active Defence: Managing synchronised missile interceptions during live hostilities.
Strategic Deterrence and Regional Context
The launch follows a period of extreme volatility. In June 2025, Al Udeid was targeted by Iranian missiles during a regional conflict, an event that prompted a landmark U.S. executive order formally pledging to defend Qatar’s territorial integrity. Most recently, Tehran issued warnings Saturday that it would target American installations in Qatar and Bahrain should Washington interfere in Iran’s ongoing internal unrest.
Lt. Gen. Derek France, the AFCENT commander, described the new cell as a “consistent venue” for regional allies to “collectively create solutions” for integrated air and missile defence.