Iraq Launches Visionary Initiative to Transform and Diversify Its Air Force Fleet

The Commander of Iraq’s Air Force, Lieutenant General Shihab Jihad, revealed a bold initiative to broaden and diversify the fleet of aircraft within the Iraqi Air Force during a discussion with the Iraqi News Agency (INA) on Wednesday.

Lieutenant General Jihad clarified that this initiative is part of Iraq’s strategy to enhance the capacities of its military and security forces by integrating the latest defense technologies.

Collaborative Drills with Italy

Along with the expansion initiative, Lieutenant General Jihad also disclosed the aims of the collaborative drills being carried out by the Iraqi Air Force alongside its Italian counterpart, which concentrate on boosting operational readiness and fostering confidence and expertise in addressing regional threats and variations.

Support from the US and Iraq

Iraqi Defense Minister Thabit al-Abasi indicated ongoing discussions between the Iraqi Prime Minister and his US equivalent regarding the provision of F-16 fighter jets and Bell helicopters to Iraq.

Focus on Pakistani and French Aircraft

Recently, US publication Forbes reported that Iraq is inclined to incorporate Pakistani and French combat aircraft to augment its aerial fleet.

The publication noted that since 2021, Iraq has been aiming to secure 12 JF-17 Thunder aircraft of Pakistani manufacture, along with 14 Rafale aircraft from France.

Pakistani newspaper News International announced the finalization of a deal between Iraq and Islamabad for the procurement of JF-17 Block 3 fighters following over two years of negotiations.

Iraqi outlets also highlighted Baghdad’s persistent interest in acquiring 14 Rafale aircraft from France, as part of a negotiation process ongoing since 2021.

Iraq’s quest for fighter jets from Pakistan, France, and the United States underscores its objective to achieve a balanced approach to sourcing military equipment and minimize dependency on a single nation.

Essential Points:

• Iraq is broadening and diversifying its aerial fleet with cutting-edge technology.
• Joint exercises with Italy emphasize enhancing operational readiness and managing regional threats.
• Iraq is negotiating with the US to obtain F-16 fighter jets and Bell helicopters.
• Iraq is evaluating the acquisition of JF-17 Thunder aircraft from Pakistan and Rafale aircraft from France.
• Iraq aims to ensure a balanced approach to its armament sources and avoid dependence on a single nation.