Iraq looks to buy F-16s

The Iraqi government is seeking to buy 36 advanced F-16 fighters from the U.S., American military officials familiar with the request told the Wall Street Journal. This move could help Iraq reduce its reliance on U.S. air power and potentially allow more American forces to withdraw from the country than had been proposed.

The F-16, made by Lockheed Martin Corp, is the most sophisticated weapons system Iraq has attempted to purchase so far. Late in July, the U.S. Department of Defense had approved up to $10.7 billion in arms sales for Iraq, including a $2.16 billion sale of M1A1 Abrams tanks built by General Dynamics Corp.

The U.S. recently announced F-16 sales to Morocco and Romania. Those sales, each for roughly $100 million per plane with training, related equipment and support included, offer an indication of how lucrative the Iraq deal could be for Lockheed Martin and its suppliers.

Iraq now appears determined to significantly expand the air power of its military, which has become more competent and confident in recent months but depends heavily on the U.S. for air support. Iraq quickly has become one of the biggest weapons buyers in the world as it seeks to strengthen and professionalise its fighting force.

No one was available at the U.S. Department of Defense for comment.

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lcortez said:

This is def something for the next administration to deal with,but would tend to believe the deal will go through,as it will,as the piece says,help deal with the overstretch in US forces.
Any clue as to which model the planes are as this could give some clues as to the likelyhood of the deal going through,owing to US sensitivities re technology transfers etc.

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lcortez said:

Any clue as to which model the planes are as this could give some clues as to the likelyhood of the deal going through,owing to US sensitivities re technology transfers etc.

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Mr T said:

I would have thought that it would be surplus USAF planes rehauled and perhaps upgraded. Something useful for the Iraqis to get started with but nothing that's going to cause trouble if a bit of technology fell into the wrong hands.

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Iraqi Brass Confirm Interest in F-16s, Armed Helos

Iraq prefers to pattern its Air Force along American lines, and is consulting with Pentagon experts about establishing a frontline, U.S.-trained force based around F-16 fighters, C-130J transports, armed helicopters and other advanced systems. ...

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adeptitus said:

If the US had a "lesser" fighter for sale, I think they'd have transferred some to Iraq. But as is I think the lowest-end avail will be used F-16 A/B. The US will be able to control the software codes in the aircraft to restrict what munitions they can be used with. Probably limited supply of AAM's and no PGM bombs.

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