Qatar Airways backs the proposed $45 billion merger of EADS and BAE Systems, the Gulf carrier's chief executive said on Tuesday, arguing a combined entity would make better products.

Airbus parent EADS and BAE Systems are battling to save their tie-up, which would create a European aerospace and defence giant, amid competing government interests.

"It will make them strong," Akbar Al-Baker said. "They're coming back together because staying apart was not in their best interest. They can provide better products and customer service together."

No Boeing 787 delivery until engine fault fixed

Qatar Airways will not take delivery of Boeing's 787 Dreamliner until an engine defect is modified, Al-Baker added.

"The 787 has an engine with new technology. However, there has been a material defect in the engine which now needs replacement and inspection," he said.

"We have informed Boeing that we will not take delivery until the 787s have the new modified shaft." – Reuters