Iraq requests $1.6bn sale of pilot training and logistical support from US

The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has notified Congress of a potential $1.6bn foreign military sale of pilot training, maintenance training and contractor logistical services support to Iraq.

Under the sale, Iraq seeks to receive pilot and maintenance training and contractor logistical support for trainer aircrafts such as C-172, C-208, and T-6 for up to five years.

The sale covers contractor aircraft modification, repair and spare parts, publications, aircraft ferry, and miscellaneous parts. The sale also includes training base operation support, base life support, security, construction, and other related elements of programme support.

The Government of Iraq also requested contractor logistical support costs for the trainer aircraft, as well as possible future construction and base operation support costs.

Iraq currently has a fleet of 12 C-172, five C-208, and 15 T-6 training aircraft.

"Iraq will decrease its overseas training requirements, significantly reducing costs, and enhancing its ability to take over the sustainment of its aircraft."

The procurement will improve the Iraqi Air Force's ability to train its pilots and maintenance technicians.

The C-172s and T-6s are training platforms for Iraq’s mobility and fighter attack fleets, while C-208s are used for training its intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) pilots.

By training its own pilots and maintenance technicians in-country, Iraq will decrease its reliance on overseas partners, significantly reducing costs and enhancing its ability to take over the sustainment of its aircraft, DSCA stated.

Spartan College in Oklahoma will serve as the principal contractor for the sale.