The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has notified Congress of a potential foreign military sale (FMS) of King Air 350 sustainment package to the Government of Iraq.
Under the estimated $350m, Iraq has requested a five-year sustainment, logistics, and spares support for the Iraqi Air Force’s (IQAF) Special Mission King Air 350 light transport aircraft fleet.
Additionally, the contract covers operational and intermediate depot level maintenance, component repair, publication updates, and maintenance training.
The proposed FMS follows the existing contract logistics support (CLS) effort awarded to Beechcraft Defense in 2013.
The IQAF currently operates five King Air 350 intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) aircraft and one King Air 350 aircraft which are deployed to support Iraqi military missions combat Al-Qaeda affiliates and ISIS forces.
Beechcraft Defense will serve as the prime contractor for the proposed sale.
The FMS programme is expected to help enhance the critical capability of the Iraq security forces in combating ISIS.
Developed by Hawker Pacific, the King Air 350 is equipped with turboprop engines, modern avionics and a glass cockpit.
Fitted with nacelle fuel tanks and heavy-duty landing gear, the aircraft has an endurance of 12 hours, and is also capable of loitering low and slow or cruising at 300k.
Currently, the air forces of countries including Australia, Angola, Argentina, Canada, Egypt, Japan, operate the King Air 350 aircraft.
