US approves possible $800 million sale of helicopters, weapons to Iraq

The US State Department has approved a possible sale to Iraq of Bell 412EPX and Bell 407M helicopters, along with related equipment, with the deal estimated at $800 million.

The department said the package includes GAU-19 machine-gun mounts, launchers for 2.75-inch unguided aircraft rockets, electro-optical surveillance systems, missile-warning systems, radios, spare parts and ground equipment, Caliber.Az reports.

The deal also includes training for Iraqi pilots and technical personnel, as well as engineering, technical and logistical support.

According to the US, the sale would strengthen Iraq’s capabilities to counter threats, including by enhancing its transport aviation, aerial reconnaissance and ground-target engagement capabilities.

“This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to improve the security of a strategic partner. The proposed sale will improve Iraq’s capability to meet current and future threats by improving its rotary wing transport, reconnaissance, and air-to-surface targeting capabilities,” it noted.

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov