Overview
- CENTCOM announced the MEAD-CDOC’s launch at Al Udeid Air Base, placing the new cell inside the Combined Air Operations Center with U.S. and regional personnel.
- The CAOC currently includes representatives from 17 nations, providing a multinational framework the new cell will use for integrated air and missile defense.
- Officials say the cell will plan multinational exercises, conduct drills, coordinate contingency responses, and share real-time information and threat warnings.
- The move follows reporting that Iran targeted Al Udeid in a retaliatory missile attack last June after U.S. strikes, and the base is described as home to about 10,000 U.S. personnel.
- The step comes as nationwide protests in Iran continue, with reported death tolls around 2,000 according to an Iranian official and activist tallies cited by international outlets, and as the U.S. president publicly warns Tehran of possible military action.