The State Department has cleared the path for Iraq to purchase $300 million in aircraft maintenance logistical support for Bell Helicopters.
The approval for the possible foreign military sale was granted after the Iraq government requested Bell contract logistics support and field service representative contract for three 407 variants, 206B3, OH-58A/C Kiowa, Huey II, and 505 aircraft.
“The proposed sale will improve the Republic of Iraq’s capability to meet current and future threats by enhancing the strength of its homeland defense,” the Defense Security Cooperation Agency said in a statement. “The Republic of Iraq will have no difficulty absorbing these services into its armed forces.”
The announcement comes as Iraq continues to accelerate its air force modernization effort as part of forecasted defense spending of $27.3 billion, Air Force Technology reported.
Congress was notified of the approval determination November 2.
