U.S. and Iraqi military officials are working together to help the the Iraqis pruchase their own fleet of F-16C Fighting Falcons like the one shown here. (U.S. Air Force photo)
9/28/2011 - WASHINGTON (AFNS) -- The Iraqi government has transferred its first payment for 18 F-16C Fighting Falcons, bringing Iraq closer to independently securing its airspace, Pentagon Press Secretary George Little said Sept 27.
"These aircraft will help provide air sovereignty for Iraq to protect its own territory and deter or counter regional threats," Little said.
The fighter aircraft, he said, "are also a symbol of the commitment to a long-term strategic partnership between the United States and Iraq."
The fighters are the block 50/52 variant of the aircraft -- the current production version of the F-16 Fighting Falcon. The sale is valued at about $3 billion, Little said.
The United States conducts foreign military sales with Iraq, he added, "and fully supports Iraq's efforts to purchase military equipment in line with its domestic spending priorities and in accordance with its budget laws and procedures."
Such foreign military sales will be a cornerstone of future cooperation and support the development of a long-term cooperative security relationship with Iraq, Little said.
"Foreign military sales around the world, such as this purchase of F-16 aircraft," the press secretary said, "strengthen our diplomatic and military relationships with our allies and supports American industry and jobs at home."
Comments
10/6/2011 2:01:57 PM ET It really doesnt matter what we sell them. They will never have the skill and training with our own technology to even compete. I think its a good move we could use the money these days
Ric, FWB Florida
10/4/2011 9:35:35 AM ET Good opportunity for f-16 mechanics to make a 6 digit tax free income contracting themselves out.
Same, Here
9/29/2011 12:41:49 PM ET Don't we have any F-4's or F-105's sitting around we can sell them
Jeff, Hellertown PA
9/29/2011 8:47:20 AM ET 1- They don't have the training to make these effective against us. 2- It is the export model.
Analyst, Barksdale
9/28/2011 8:20:43 PM ET Donnie is spot on. Why are we going to sell them stuff if they are just going to turn around and bend to the will of Iran
Sgt Whoever, conus
9/28/2011 7:29:06 PM ET I completely agree. Why are we giving them OUR aircraft I think this is going to come back and bite us
Concered, USAF
9/28/2011 5:10:16 PM ET I find it a little surprising that we are selling them the latest block 5052 versions-- unless there is some kind of export model of the 5052's.
Sarge, Minnesota
9/28/2011 1:17:29 PM ET Didnt We sell IRAN war planes back in the day Now they are our enemies..I have mixed feelings about this. Wander why.
