BAGHDAD (IraqiNews.com) – Spokesman Yahya Rasoul, commander-in-chief of the Iraqi Armed Forces, confirmed on Tuesday that the Iraqi Air Force is exploring the inclusion of Rafale fighter jets in the Iraqi fleet, the Iraqi News Agency (INA) reports. Reported.
“The Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, has directed to complete the capacity building of the Iraqi military, including the air force. Iraq is therefore open to many countries, including France.” Rasoul told INA.
Iraqi military officials revealed that France is one of the leading countries in the military industry, including the air force, and pointed out that there is military cooperation between Iraq and France in many areas, especially in the field of air defense systems.
Rasool elaborated that the Iraqi Air Force is looking forward to developing aircraft, including modern multi-role aircraft such as the Rafale, which is one of the most advanced aircraft with high capabilities.
Iraqi officials emphasized the importance of training and exercises that the Iraqi Air Force conducts with many countries, including NATO countries and France, to improve its expertise.
Iraqi military officials added that military exercises will be held, with the participation of Iraqi F-16 and Rafale fighter jets to experience the capabilities of both aircraft.
The Dassault Rafale is a French multi-role fighter aircraft designed and manufactured by Dassault Aviation.
Equipped with a wide range of weaponry, the Rafale is intended to perform air superiority, interdiction, air reconnaissance, ground support, outright strike, anti-ship attack and nuclear deterrence missions.
