The United States has approved the Iraqi government’s request for aircraft contractor logistics support worth $140 million.
Under the proposed foreign military sale, Baghdad will receive aircraft sustainment services for its C-172 and AC/RC-208 fleet.
The requirements include technical and proficiency training for Iraqi maintainers and aircrews, spare and repair components, engineering and technical services, and other elements of logistics and program support, according to the Defense Security Cooperation Agency.
The agency said the potential FMS deal will bolster the security of Iraq, which the United States considers a strategic partner in the Middle East.
Iraq is expected to readily integrate the needed articles and services into its military forces, allowing the country to meet existing and emerging threats and improve its self-sufficiency in aircraft maintenance.
If Congress clears the defense agreement, Northrop Grumman will fulfill the CLS contract’s specifications, DSCA said.
The Department of State cleared the proposal following its decision in November 2023 to authorize Textron’s Bell subsidiary to provide maintenance and logistics support for Iraq’s Bell 407, 206B3, OH-58A/C Kiowa, Huey II and 505 helicopters.