Iraq’s Defense Ministry: Local crews fully handle F-16 maintenance and operations

Iraqi Defense Ministry spokesperson Major General Yahya Rasool said on Sunday that Iraqi technical and engineering personnel have been fully responsible for maintaining and operating F-16 fighter jets since 2025, stressing that foreign expertise is no longer relied upon for these tasks.

Rasool said Iraqi engineers and technicians specialized in F-16 aircraft now carry out maintenance operations at a 100% rate, alongside aircraft operations, fuel supply and pilot training. He noted that the aircraft manufacturer’s role is currently limited to supplying spare parts, a standard practice followed by aircraft operators worldwide.

He explained that Iraq now has highly qualified technical and engineering personnel capable of maintaining and restoring F-16 aircraft to operational readiness. A number of Iraqi specialists have completed advanced training programs in the United States, while others received training inside Iraq in cooperation with specialized companies.

Rasool added that the expertise and training of Iraqi technicians and engineers have reached a high level, with some personnel now capable of training and developing additional local staff.

He stressed that Iraq is capable of relying entirely on its national workforce to maintain and operate its F-16 fleet, provide fuel and train pilots, particularly following the withdrawal of the international coalition.