Iraq Heading Toward Fully Operational Air Force

Defense News
Mon, Feb 10, 2014

by Awad Mustafa

A proposed foreign military sale to Iraq for air traffic control and landing systems highlights the imminent possibility of a fully operational Iraqi Air Force in the next few years, according to an industry expert.

On Feb. 4, the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) notified Congress of a possible foreign military sale to Iraq for Air Traffic Control and Landing Systems and associated equipment, parts, training and logistical support for an estimated cost of $700 million.

Iraq has requested a sale of commercially available Federal Aviation Administration air traffic control equipment and airfield navigational aids suites to be installed at four bases — Tikrit, al-Basra, al-Kut and Taji.

The equipment includes airport surveillance radars, automation systems, airfield support and navigation suites, and primary search radars.

Also provided are site surveys, system integration, installation, testing, repair and return, facilities, warranties, spare and repair parts, support equipment, personnel training and training equipment, publications and technical documentation, US government and contractor engineering and logistics support services, and other related elements of logistics and program support.

Experts say DSCA notification should be seen in conjunction with other recent messages that the US will be a key partner in this process.


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