Iraq’s Air Defense Development Tops Military Armament Priorities, Defense Ministry Says

Iraqi Ministry of Defense spokesperson Major General Yahya Rasool said on Friday that completing and strengthening the country’s air defense capabilities remains the top priority in military procurement and capability development plans, in line with directives from Prime Minister and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Ali Faleh Al-Zaidi.

Rasool explained that the ministry has established plans to upgrade various branches of the armed forces, including air defense, the air force, army aviation, reconnaissance, and other military sectors, based on the institution’s operational requirements and future needs.

He noted that technical committees from the ministry have visited several advanced countries to assess their expertise and capabilities in military procurement. The visits are intended to support technical evaluations and identify suitable weapons and systems for the Iraqi armed forces.

Rasool stressed that strengthening air defense capabilities has been designated as the principal priority by the commander-in-chief. He added that the ministry is continuing to examine available options and determine which systems would best enhance Iraq’s air defense capabilities.

He further stated that the technical committees would continue evaluating weapons and military capabilities ahead of decisions on further capability development and potential arms procurement contracts. Official details concerning contracts, weapons imports, or deliveries to Iraq will be announced once the necessary procedures have been completed.

According to Rasool, the ministry’s development plans extend beyond air defense to include the air force, army aviation, reconnaissance, and other military fields. These efforts form part of a broader strategy to improve the readiness and operational effectiveness of Iraq’s armed forces.

Regarding the ministry’s leadership, Rasool noted that Defense Minister Nayef Al-Shammari had assumed the position after receiving parliamentary approval. He added that the ministry’s current direction focuses on expanding military capabilities and strengthening the defense establishment in accordance with its established plans.