US approves $800 million sale of Bell helicopters and weapons to Iraq
The U.S. State Department approved a potential $800 million Foreign Military Sale of Bell 412 and Bell 407M helicopters, along with GAU-19 machine gun launchers, M260 rocket launchers, sensors, and training to Iraq. The sale aims to enhance Iraq’s rotary-wing transport, reconnaissance, and air-to-surface targeting capabilities, replacing Russian-made Mi-17 helicopters. Bell-Textron of Fort Worth, Texas, is the principal contractor. The approval is not a final contract, and quantities may change.
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US approves possible $800 million military helicopter sale to Iraq
The United States State Department has approved a potential $800 million Foreign Military Sale of Bell helicopters, weapons, and related equipment to Iraq. The proposed sale includes Bell 412 and Bell 407M helicopters, GAU-19 machine gun launchers, M260 rocket launchers, electro-optical/infrared sensors, and missile launch detection systems. The package also covers radios, spare parts, ground support equipment, technical data, and training for Iraqi pilots and maintenance personnel. The State Department stated the sale would improve Iraq's rotary-wing transport, reconnaissance, and air-to-surface targeting capabilities to address current and future threats. Bell-Textron, based in Fort Worth, Texas, would be the principal contractor. The notification represents approval of a possible sale, not a completed contract, and final quantities and costs may change. This follows earlier Iraqi requests to replace Russian-made Mi-17 helicopters and modernize their fleet, as noted in a 2026 Department of Defense Inspector General report on Operation Inherent Resolve.
Read sourceUS approves possible $800 million military helicopter sale to Iraq
The United States has approved a potential $800 million Foreign Military Sale of Bell helicopters, weapons, and related equipment to Iraq, according to the State Department. The proposed sale includes Bell 412 and Bell 407M helicopters, GAU-19 machine gun launchers, M260 rocket launchers, electro-optical/infrared sensors, and missile launch detection systems. The State Department did not specify the number of helicopters, but a 2026 DoD Inspector General report indicated Iraq had requested four Bell 412EPXs, 16 Bell 412Ms, and 15 Bell 407Ms to replace Russian-made Mi-17 helicopters and upgrade light-attack capabilities. The package also includes radios, spare parts, training for Iraqi personnel, and U.S. government contractor support. The State Department stated the sale would improve Iraq's rotary-wing transport, reconnaissance, and air-to-surface targeting capabilities, supporting U.S. foreign policy and national security interests by enhancing the security of a strategic partner. Bell-Textron of Fort Worth, Texas, would be the principal contractor. The notification represents approval of a possible sale, not a completed contract, and final quantities and costs may change.
Read sourceUS approves $800m helicopter sale to Iraq including Bell 412EPX and 407M
The US Department of State has approved a potential $800 million Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to Iraq for Bell 412EPX and Bell 407M helicopters along with associated equipment. The sale, reported by Army Technology, is intended to support Iraq's defense capabilities. The approval marks a significant defense cooperation between the United States and Iraq, though the final sale is subject to congressional notification and other procedural steps. The helicopters are expected to enhance Iraq's military aviation fleet for transport, reconnaissance, and other missions.
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US approves potential $800 million helicopter sale to Iraq
The United States State Department has approved a potential $800 million helicopter sale to Iraq. The proposed sale is intended to enhance Iraq's military capabilities, specifically improving its rotary wing transport, reconnaissance, and air-to-surface targeting abilities. This move is part of ongoing US efforts to support Iraq in addressing current and future security threats. The announcement was made by Breaking Defense, a defense industry news outlet, citing a statement from the State Department. The sale underscores the continued military cooperation between the US and Iraq, aiming to bolster Iraq's defense infrastructure and operational effectiveness against various threats in the region.
US approves Bell 407M armed scout helicopter sale to Iraq for reconnaissance and strike missions
The United States has approved the sale of Bell 407M armed scout helicopters to Iraq, intended for reconnaissance and strike missions. The approval, reported by Army Recognition, marks a significant defense cooperation between the two countries. The Bell 407M is a militarized variant of the Bell 407 helicopter, equipped with advanced sensors and weapon systems for light attack and surveillance roles. This sale aims to enhance Iraq's capabilities in counterterrorism operations and border security. The deal is subject to congressional notification and final contract negotiations. The helicopters will support Iraqi forces in conducting armed reconnaissance, close air support, and precision strike missions. The approval reflects ongoing US commitment to Iraq's security and stability in the region.
US State Department approves $800m sale of Bell helicopters to Iraq
The US State Department has approved an $800 million military sale of Bell helicopters and related equipment to Iraq, according to a statement issued on Monday. The principal contractor for the sale will be Bell-Textron of Fort Worth, Texas. The department stated that the proposed sale will support US foreign policy and national security by helping to improve the security of a strategic partner. The announcement underscores ongoing US military cooperation with Iraq and the provision of advanced defense equipment to bolster Iraqi capabilities.
Read sourceU.S. approves $800 million sale of military helicopters to Iraq
The United States has approved an $800 million sale of military helicopters to Iraq, according to a breaking news report. The deal involves the transfer of advanced helicopter systems to support Iraq's defense capabilities. This significant arms sale underscores ongoing U.S. military cooperation with Iraq, aimed at enhancing the country's security and counterterrorism efforts. The approval marks a major defense transaction between the two nations, with the helicopters expected to bolster Iraq's aerial fleet. Specific models and delivery timelines were not detailed in the initial announcement. The sale is part of broader U.S. commitments to strengthen allied forces in the Middle East region.