Iraq has finalized a contract for the purchase of 14 Caracal H225M multi-role troop transport helicopters. The deal, signed on Sept. 5, includes 12 new aircraft and two pre-owned units slated for modernization.
Iraqi Defense Minister Thabet al-Abbassi stated that these helicopters would “strengthen the capabilities of the Iraqi army and military aviation.” The acquisition comes as Iraq continues to face security challenges from remnant ISIS cells, particularly in rural and remote areas, despite declaring victory over the Islamic State in late 2017.
Airbus Helicopters has confirmed to La Tribune that the first tactical transport helicopters are scheduled for delivery to Iraq in early 2025. This timeline underscores the urgent nature of Iraq’s military modernization efforts.
The contract’s origins can be traced back to high-level diplomatic exchanges. French Ambassador Patrick Durel emphasized that the agreement resulted from longstanding discussions between French President Emmanuel Macron and Iraqi Prime Minister Mohamed Chia Al-Soudani. The Iraqi leader’s visit to Paris in January 2023 likely played a crucial role in advancing the negotiations.
For Airbus Helicopters, this order provides a welcome boost to its Marignane facility, injecting new life into the Caracal production line. The contract not only strengthens Iraq’s military capabilities but also reinforces the strategic partnership between France and Iraq in the defense sector.
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