The US government has approved the purchase of a National Advanced Surface to Air Missile System (Nasams) at a cost of $215m, the State Department .announced on 27 November; it includes 40 missiles, along with missile containers, navigation equipment and various other training and service elements. The system from Raytheon Missiles Systems will enhance Qatar’s ability to deal with regional threats and will strengthen its homeland defence, by providing protection from cruise missiles, aircraft, helicopter and drone attacks, the State Department said.