France has offered to sell 18 Mirage F1 retrofitted fighters to Iraq for $1bn as part of the comprehensive military air programme, French ambassador Boris Boillon has said.

“France has proposed to sell 18 Mirage F1 retrofitted aircraft that can be delivered from late 2011 and be immediately operational because many Iraqi pilots were trained in the past on this type of plane,” he added.

Iraqi Government spokesman Ali-al Dabbagh said the nation welcomed any offer to build its air force.

“Any origin of high quality with a good offer will be welcomed, taking into consideration that we need to unify the source of arming if they fulfil Iraq’s requirements,” he said.

Iran is also negotiating a deal with the US to buy 18 US-built F-16 fighter jet aircraft.

The nation’s air force was destroyed during and after the US-led invasion in 2003, according to Agence France Presse.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.