Iraq makes first payment in $3 bln F-16 deal-U.S.
27 Sep 2011 17:34
Source: Reuters // Reuters
WASHINGTON, Sept 27 (Reuters) - Iraq has made the first payment in a deal to buy 18 F-16 warplanes worth a total of about $3 billion, the U.S. State Department said on Tuesday.
"These aircraft are going to help provide air sovereignty for Iraq and to protect its territory," State Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland said.
"They also, as a significant military sale between us, are a symbol of the commitment that we've made to the Iraqi government to have a long-term strategic partnership between the United States and Iraq," Nuland said.
===========
27 Sep 2011 14:31
Source: Reuters // Reuters
* New U.S. warplanes are years in the future
* Only 60 percent radar coverage when U.S. leaves
* Air Force a small part of Iraqi military
By Jim Loney
BAGHDAD, Sept 27 (Reuters) - - Saddam Hussein once commanded one of the most powerful airforces in the Middle East with 40,000 personnel and 1,000 aircraft including Soviet MiG and French Mirage fighters.
Now its combat capability lies largely in three Cessna propeller planes armed with Hellfire missiles.
In a move to redress the balance in the face of an Islamist insurgency and regional turmoil, Iraq on Monday said it had signed a multibillion-dollar contract to buy 18 Lockheed Martin F-16s warplanes [ID: nL5E7KQ3WQ].
But their delivery is several years away and both U.S. and Iraqi officials say Iraq will need help to control its airspace.
"They will tell you, as will I, that (air defence) is their number one priority when it comes to gaps," said U.S. Brigadier General Tony Rock, who is helping rebuild Iraq's air force.
"When we leave here...there will not be air intercept capability until they (have) a multi-role fighter like the F-16."
Eight years after Saddam was toppled Iraq's two airborne units, the Air Force and Army Aviation Command, comprise 158 aircraft, including helicopters, and about 7,500 personnel, according to U.S. figures. That's just over 1 percent of Iraq's 650,000-strong military and security forces.
REFUELING DEPOTS, RADAR COVER
Its not just the lack of aircraft which is problematic. When the Army Aviation Command dispatches a helicopter to hunt Islamic militants, it often needs to refuel at one of the dozens of fuel depots installed and run by the U.S. across Iraq.
But with the U.S. military dismantling its bases and just three months from leaving Iraq, many of the Forward Arming and Refueling Points (FARPs) the Iraqis have relied upon to extend their aerial range against the insurgency are disappearing.
"I have found that the fuel truck is more important than the aircraft. We don't have enough mobile trucks to provide fuel for the Air Force and the Iraqi Army," said General Hamid al-Maliki, head of the Army Aviation Command.
"We can operate without the Americans. But we still need them."
To ease Iraqi worries the U.S. military has ordered eight HEMTT (Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck) fuel trucks and is turning over some of its far-flung fuel stations.
But a shortage of timely fuel is hardly the only deficiency in Iraq's air defence.
By the time U.S. forces pull out, Iraq will be able to monitor only 60 percent of its air space, mostly the heavily populated eastern areas, via two long-range radars stationed at Tallil in southern Nassiriya and at Taji northwest of Baghdad.
The air force wants two more long-range radars to cover more of the north, northwest and west, as well as ground-based air defence systems. Those are years away.
While it waits for its F-16s, the Air Force relies on what Rock called "nascent but credible capabilities" with 69 aircraft including three missile-equipped Cessnas, three reconnaissance Cessnas capable of capturing and downlinking real-time video, as well as C-130E transports, training and other planes.
The Army Aviation Command runs 89 rotary aircraft including Russian Mi-171s and is beefing up with 27 Bell 407 helicopters, most of them fitted with weapons. Delivery had been expected by Dec. 31 but has been pushed back until March or April.
DEFENCE DELAYED
It could be late 2014 or 2015 before the first F-16s are delivered. But even when the warplanes arrive, Iraq will lag far behind its neighbours.
"Having these fighter jets will not mean Iraq is about to stand at the same level of neighbouring countries' air forces," said an Iraqi ex-military commander who asked not to be named.
"If you compared the level of the Iraqi air forces with the time before 2003, I can say, if it is not zero percent, it does not exceed 10 percent," he said. "This is a long term mission."
The U.S. military will hand over six major air bases to Iraqi control in the next few months -- Tikrit, Kirkuk, Taji, Balad, al-Asad and Ali --- in addition to leaving behind some of the fueling stations and other hardware as Washington draws down from its current 43,000-odd troops to zero by year-end.
"You'll see what I call a tsunami of stuff coming their way in the next few months," Rock said.
Iraq shares borders Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Syria, Turkey, Iran and Kuwait. Unrest in Syria threatens the government there, and Turkey and Iran regularly launch air or artillery strikes on Kurdish rebels along Iraq's northern border.
But in spite of the region's instability, General Nasier Abadi, the Defence Ministry vice chief of staff and a military pilot, said Iraq was capable of deterring internal threats from the insurgency and has no current external enemies.
"I think we are ready now to go solo. We will have lots of problems but in the end that's the way it has to be." (Additional reporting by Suadad al-Salhy and Waleed Ibrahim; Editing by Matthew Jones)
===
Iraq signs F-16 deal with US
Tue Sep 27, 2011 9:58AM GMT
F-16 warplanes (file photo)
Iraq has signed an agreement with the United States to buy eighteen F-16 warplanes and has paid for a part of the deal in advance, an adviser to the Iraqi prime minister says.
"Iraq has signed [a deal] with Washington to buy the F-16s," Ali Mussawi said.
"This agreement, for which Iraq has already paid some of the money, is for 18 F-16s in the first phase," AFP quoted him as saying on Tuesday.
Mussawi did not give any details about the price of the contract or the warplanes' delivery date, but reports have cited officials in Washington that Baghdad has already paid USD 1.5 billion in advance.
Earlier this year, Iraq and the US were close to sign the deal, however, Baghdad decided to re-route USD 900 million from the contract's allocated budget to a welfare plan.
The agreement is expected to be worth billions of dollars, and it may take years to be implemented since it needs time for training of Iraqi pilots and manufacturing the planes.
According to head of the US air forces in Iraq General Russ Handy, ten Iraqi pilots are receiving training in the US and their course will finish before the F-16s are delivered to Iraq.
The United States and its allies invaded Iraq in 2003, citing concerns over alleged weapons of mass destruction wielded by the executed Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein's Ba'athist government.
No such weapons were ever found in Iraq. However, nearly 50,000 American troops still remain in the country.
====
Sticker Shock: Iraqi F-16s $165 Million Each
Posted by MARK THOMPSON Wednesday, September 28, 2011 at 9:24 am
3 Comments • Related Topics: air force, arms sales, iraq, military, military spending, national security, pentagon, weapons
F-16s perform the "Delta Burst" over Florida / Air Force photo by Larry E. Reid Jr.
Think of it as a military-industrial complex two-fer -- first we invade Iraq, eight years later we're selling it F-16s. "Iraq has now made its first transfer payment for the purchase of 18 F-16 fighter aircraft," State Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland said Tuesday. "These aircraft are going to help provide air sovereignty for Iraq and to protect its territory and deter or counter regional threats." They represent "the cornerstone of the kind of cooperation that we hope to have in the future to support the secure, peaceful, democratic development of Iraq."
Iraqi jet jockeys can't wait. "It was a dream come true to fly in the F-16," Iraqi air force Brigadier General Ali al-Aaragy said after taking one of the fighters for a test ride at Arizona's Luke Air Force Base nearly three years ago. The first flock of F-16s is slated to arrive in Iraq in 2014. The U.S. is selling Iraq 18 of the "low end" of the Pentagon's famed "high-low mix" -- F-15s were the more costly "high end." But these 18 F-16s are no bargain.
The planes are going to cost $3 billion (extra spares and services could drive the total cost to $4.2 billion). That base price, without the options, works out to more than $165 million a plane -- more than the current estimated $154 million price tag on the much more modern -- so-called fifth generation -- F-35. (The Pentagon stopped buying F-16s back in 1995; it paid an average of $17 million per plane).
The good news is the deal will likely keep the Lockheed's F-16 plant in Fort Worth running perhaps a year longer.
The bad news is that only 70% of Iraqis have access to clean water, and only 25% have clean sanitation.
Read more: http://battleland.blogs.time.com/2011/09/28/sticker-shock-iraqi-f-16s-165-million-each/#ixzz1ZJMewMyK
===
AIRSHOW-Iraq eyes F-16 buys on road to new air force
12 Nov 2011 11:36
Source: Reuters // Reuters
By Mahmoud Habboush
DUBAI, Nov 12 (Reuters) - Iraq is planning to expand its fleet of aerial reconnaissance planes "in the near future" and is hoping to sign a deal for a second batch of F-16 warplanes by next year, the country's air force chief said on Saturday.
The moves, laid out by Lt. General Anwer Amin on the sidelines of a conference ahead of Sunday's Dubai Airshow, are part of Iraq's efforts to move gradually away from dependence on U.S. air support.
"We have projects to buy UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) in the near future," Amin told reporters on the sidelines of the air marshals conference.
He said the Iraqi air force was looking into several options.
"One of the leading countries in the region is the United Arab Emirates, there is also the United States," he said.
The United States will withdraw its remaining 40,000 troops in Iraq by the end of this year, but Iraqi officials say it will take years before they are able to defend their airspace.
"Building an air force is a very complicated process that depends on several factors, including securing financial cover and human capabilities as well as time," Amin said.
Military experts say that Iraq's lack of a strong fleet of combat planes means that it will rely on the U.S. air force to shoulder this responsibility for some years.
"Certainly the United States air force will be there for the Iraqi air force if that that's what the two governments agree to," Gen. Norton Schwartz, commander of the U.S. air force, said on Saturday.
Amir said he hoped a deal would be signed next year on the second batch of 36 F-16 warplanes Iraq plans to acquire.
"Eighteen planes have been bought, the contract has been signed, and the other 18 planes hopefully next year," he said.
Iraq made the first payment in the deal to buy the first set of warplanes worth a total of about $3 billion in September.
Amin said the Iraqi air force already runs an advanced fleet of reconnaissance planes that very few countries in the region have.
"These are planes that we are proud of using over the past few years to detect terrorist activities," he said.
====
F-18 jet crashes into apartments in Virginia next to elementary school (PHOTOS, VIDEO)
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Published: 06 April, 2012, 21:03
F-18 fighter jet crashes into apartment builings in Virginia (PHOTOS)
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TAGS: Military, Accident, USA, Planes
Commander Rosi with the Navy said two aircrew safely ejected from the plane that was based in Oceana. Both pilots have been taken to a nearby hospital, according to reports from the scene.
Witnesses say two apartment buildings near the crash site are on fire, and rescue workers are searching for potential casualties. Military police is also on site. Interstate 264 has been closed down. Thick black smoke can be seen rising from the scene.
A spokesperson from the Virginia Fire department has told reporters the fire has been contained. Reports about potential casualties are conflicting, as some people say at least one person was carried out on a stretcher from one of the apartment buildings that caught on fire after the crash. Beach General Hospital has also reportedly confirmed both pilots and five civilians were being treated for injuries, but nothing was known about the severity of their condition so far.
One of the first peope on the scene told CBS news that he helped move one of the pilots to a safe distance from the blaze. According to the witness, the pilot was conscious and apologized profusely for crashing into the apartment complex.
Reports also suggest at least one apartment building has burnt down completely. Overall, at least 5 buildings and 20 apartment units have been affected by the fire.
Several people have also claimed the fighter jet was seen dumping fuel just before the crash, in order to avoid an explosion upon impact.
Zack Zapatero′s photo from the scene of the FA-18 crash in Virginia Beach.
Zack Zapatero's photo from the scene of the FA-18 crash in Virginia Beach.
F18 crash site, tweeted by @INFOen140.
F18 crash site, tweeted by @INFOen140.
The plane′s ejected seat (photo by Ross Grogg @wrossgrogg).
The plane's ejected seat (photo by Ross Grogg @wrossgrogg).
"Image from a friend who lives near the apartments in Virginia Beach that the F-18 crashes into," says @Andrew_Brandt in Twitter.
"Image from a friend who lives near the apartments in Virginia Beach that the F-18 crashes into," says @Andrew_Brandt in Twitter.
Photo from the scene of F18 crash in Virginia Beach, via WAVY, tweeted by @nycsouthpaw.
Photo from the scene of F18 crash in Virginia Beach, via WAVY, tweeted by @nycsouthpaw.
Ladder truck up and running from birdneck village apts parking lot (photo by Ross Grogg @wrossgrogg)
Ladder truck up and running from birdneck village apts parking lot (photo by Ross Grogg @wrossgrogg)
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Chandler Blake FergusonWTKR NewsChannel 3
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F18 descending over birdneck road just before it crashed. Taken on hwy 264 while it passed me. Jet was dumping fuel everywhere and blowing white smoke out.
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BREAKING: Navy F/A-18 from Oceana crashes into Beach apartment building
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BREAKING: Navy F/A-18 from Oceana crashes into Beach apartment building
2:49 p.m. EDT, April 6, 2012
Updates: Crews are advising residents in the area to close their windows and to stay away from the area because of air quality concerns caused by the jet fuel.
According to Dale Gauding, Corporate Communications Consultant at Sentara Healthcare, around five civilians were admitted to the hospital. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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Photos: F/A-18 crashes in Virginia Beach Photos: F/A-18 crashes in Virginia Beach
Raw Video: Apartments on fire after the crash
Raw Video: A second F-A-18 circles the crash scene
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Raw Video: Smoke from the crash scene
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An F/A 18D Navy jet assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 106 has crashed into an apartment building in Virginia Beach on Birdneck Road. Two pilots have been transported to the hospital. There has been no word on injuries according to Tim Riley of the Virginia Beach Police Department. He stated that the two pilots ejected from the jet.
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It has been confirmed that the jet is a Delta two-seat model. There has been a significant amount of damage done to an apartment building.
Initial reports indicate that at approximately 12:05 p.m., the jet crashed just after takeoff at a location just off of the base.
The interstate is now shut down on Laskin Road through Birdneck in both directions.
Another person has also been transported to the hospital suffering from smoke inhalation.
VFA-106 is based at Naval Air Station Oceana, and serves as the East Coast Fleet Replacement Squadron. Their mission is to train Navy and Marine Corps F/A-18 Replacement Pilots and Weapon Systems Officers (WSOs) to support fleet commitments.
The Navy is coordinating with local authorities.
NewsChannel 3 is working to gather more information. We will post more as it becomes available.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Governor Bob McDonnell issued the following statement this afternoon following news of the crash of an F/A-18D fighter jet in the Birdneck Road area of Virginia Beach.
"We are taking all possible steps at the state level to provide immediate resources and assistance to those impacted by the crash of an F-18 fighter jet in Virginia Beach. In the past half hour I have spoken to Virginia Beach Mayor Will Sessoms several times and informed him that all Commonwealth resources are available to him as the community responds to this breaking situation. We are monitoring events carefully as they unfold and State Police resources are now on the scene. Our fervent prayer is that no one was injured or killed in this accident."
Scott Statement on Navy Jet Crash in Virginia Beach
Congressman Robert C. "Bobby" Scott issued the following statement after a Navy jet crashed into a Virginia Beach apartment complex:
"My office has been informed of the jet crash in Virginia Beach today. While information is still developing, my thoughts and prayers are with all those impacted. I will work closely with Congressman Rigell to assist in any way possible."
============
Navy fighter jet crashes into apartment block turning Virginia retirement community into fireball as both pilots eject to safety
Navy F/A-18D crashes into Virginia Beach apartment complex
Two pilots ejected from aircraft before impact
One pilot among those taken to hospital; two others also taken, but their conditions are unknown
By Beth Stebner
PUBLISHED: 16:59 GMT, 6 April 2012 | UPDATED: 18:31 GMT, 6 April 2012
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A Navy F-18 fighter jet has crashed into the suburbs of Virginia Beach, Virginia, the Navy confirms, slamming into condos, town houses, and a retirement community, according to witnesses.
The two crew members ejected from the jet and were taken to a nearby hospital, but it is not yet known if there are any civilian casualties.
News footage showed smoke rising from numerous homes and the flaming wreckage lying on the ground.
Scroll down for videos
Fighting fire: Firefighters work to control the blaze after the crash of an F-18 navy jet into an apartment building in Virginia Beach
Fighting fire: Firefighters work to control the blaze after the crash of an F-18 navy jet into an apartment building in Virginia Beach
Wrecked: An aerial view of the apartments shows the roofs of two buildings completely distroyed
Wrecked: An aerial view of the apartments shows the roofs of two buildings completely distroyed
Devastating crash: The wreckage of the F-18 in Virginia Beach, Virginia
Devastating crash: The wreckage of the F-18 in Virginia Beach, Virginia
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Smoke: Virginia Department of Transportation traffic cameras show thick, black smoke rising from the Mayfair Mews apartment complex
Smoke: Virginia Department of Transportation traffic cameras show thick, black smoke rising from the Mayfair Mews apartment complex
Crashed: The crash happened in a residential area of Virginia Beach, which is close to a military training base
Crashed: The crash happened in a residential area of Virginia Beach, which is close to a military training base
Complex: The plane reportedly crashed into the Mews apartments, mere blocks away from Virginia Beach and the ocean
Complex: The plane reportedly crashed into the Mews apartments, mere blocks away from Virginia Beach and the ocean
The jet, confirmed to be a Delta two-seat model, apparently crashed at the Mayfield Mews apartment complex.
The Navy said in a news release that the jet was an F/A-18D assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron 106 based at Naval Air Station Oceana.
The military organisation said that the jet crashed shortly after takeoff at a site near the base at about 12:05 p.m. Both aviators ejected safely but were taken to a local hospital for observation.
Virginia Beach resident George Pilkington witnessed the crash, and told CNN the timeline of events, describing a few large explosions after the initial crash.
He said: ‘It was emptying out fuel and the tail end was down. They (the crew members) must have ejected before they came down.’
Mr Pilkington also said the engine sounded like it was ‘straining and stressing.’
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Overhead helicopter video from WAVY-TV showed fire crews in the apartment complex with large ladders spraying water on multiple smoking buildings, one of which has part of its roof torn off.
Robert Matthias, assistant to Virginia Beach's city manager, told The Associated Press crews are at the scene of an apartment complex where the jet crashed in what he described as a courtyard.
'So far, they haven't found any casualties,' Mr Matthias said.
Ejected: One resident posted this picture to Facebook of an ejected pilot's seat amid vinyl siding, twigs, and branches
Ejected: One resident posted this picture to Facebook of an ejected pilot's seat amid vinyl siding, twigs, and branches
Taken away: One of the pilots is seen being taken away on a stretcher by emergency crews - he and the other pilot ejected from the F-18 jet
Taken away: One of the pilots is seen being taken away on a stretcher by emergency crews - he and the other pilot ejected from the F-18 jet
jet
jet
Confusion: Virginia Beach residents saw a grey-black plume of smoke snaking into the sky; some described the overwhelming smell of jet fuel
Smoldering: The fiery remains of the jet lay smoldering in the wreckage of bricks and mortar
Smoldering: The fiery remains of the jet lay smoldering in the wreckage of bricks and mortar
Burning: The apartment complex is seen engulfed in flames
Burning: The apartment complex is seen engulfed in flames
He described the area as residential, calling it an ‘anywhere but here’ situation. While planes fly over the Virginia Beach area frequently, the F-18 crashed into a heavily residential area.
Mr Pilkington said that emergency crews responded in minutes to the crash.
Black smoke and flames were seen billowing out of what appeared to be a housing complex.
PilotOnline.com quoted a spokesman for Naval Air Force Atlantic who said the F/A-18 Hornet crashed Friday in the vicinity of Birdneck Road.
Another witness said that when the pilot came down he was still strapped to his ejector seat and had to be pulled out of the wreckage - when he immediately said sorry for the crash.
Retired Virginia Beach rescuer Pat Kavanaugh told CNN: ‘He apologised very much for hitting out complex and I told him: ‘Don’t worry about it, everything’s going to be fine’.
‘I checked him over, did a body survey, he was in shock, still strapped to his seat so we picked him up, dragged him to the other side of the parking lot away from the fire.
‘He had something on the lower half of his body, something heavy.
‘I knew we have gas in the buildings, so I didn’t know if there were going to be secondary explosions’.
Naval Air Force Atlantic spokesperson Cmdr. Phil Rosi told the website that both aviators safely ejected from the plane.
The jet belongs to VFA’s Strike Fighter Squadron 106 – a training division for student pilots. Because of the crash, Virginia State police have shut down Interstate 264 in both directions.
People are being advised to stay away from the area.
An Oceana-based jet crashed just after take-off and the two pilots ejected
An Oceana-based jet crashed just after take-off and the two pilots ejected
Cinder and smoke: At least ive buildings were reported to be seriously damage; there are no reports yet of civilian injuries
First responders: Fire crews rushed to put the fire out; the entire roof of one apartment building collapsed in on itself
First responders: Fire crews rushed to put the fire out; the entire roof of one apartment building collapsed in on itself
ANOTHER MILITARY CRASH INTO CIVILIAN HOMES: 2008 F-18 CRASH LEAVES FOUR DEAD
Jet
Emergency personnel sift through the wreckage of a military F/A-18 jet plane that crashed into a suburb of San Diego, California in 2008
In December 2008, a Military aircraft crashed into a home in San Diego, killing four people.
A U.S Marine Corps two-seat aircraft crashed into a residential area in University City killing four residents in one of the two homes that were destroyed.
Pilot Lt Neubauer, who was the only person in the aircraft, survived after he ejected to safety.
The plane crashed into homes just two miles from the Miramar runway. Young Mi Lee and her toddler Rachel and baby Grace all died. Mi Lee’s mother Suk Im Kim was the fourth victim.
An investigation found that poor maintenance had caused the engine to malfunction. The pilot was found to have made errors and was temporarily grounded. Other USMC personnel were disciplined after the fatal crash.
After the crash University City residents renewed their calls for the military training base MCAS Miramar to be moved to a more remote location.
The family were awarded $17.8m after a non-jury trial in December last year.
-Laura Pullman
Video: Amatuer footage of jet crash at Virginia Beach
==
Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy
Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2126223/Virginia-beach-plane-crash-F-18-hits-apartment-building.html#ixzz1rHzFZAoF
=======================
Navy jet crashes into Virginia buildings, injuring six
Fri, Apr 06 16:32 PM EDT
image
1 of 16
By Charles Abbott
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A U.S. Navy F-18D fighter crashed soon after take-off into an apartment complex in Virginia on Friday, sending fireballs into the sky, heavily damaging five buildings and injuring six people.
Four of the injured were people on the ground, including a firefighter. Both crew members ejected from the aircraft before it crashed into the buildings in Virginia Beach. They had minor injuries and were sent to hospital, the Pentagon said.
Thick black clouds of smoke billowed into the air as the apartment complex was reduced to a blackened shell.
Five buildings were heavily damaged by fire, Battalion Chief Tim Riley of the Virginia Beach Fire Department told CNN.
Rescuers were searching the damaged buildings at the Mayfair Mews apartments, less than two miles from Naval Air Station Oceana, where the F-18D was based.
"We have not had any reported missing people," Riley said.
A volunteer rescuer, Pat Kavanaugh, told CNN he found one of the pilots in the wreckage, still strapped to his ejection seat with a parachute. Kavanaugh and neighbors picked up the seat and carried the pilot away from the flames.
Kavanaugh said the pilot "apologized very much for hitting our complex."
Zack Zapatero, who witnessed the crash, told CNN there were "just large fireballs coming up" into the sky from the crash.
There was no word yet on the cause of the crash.
Amy Miller said she saw "flames underneath the right wing" just before the crash. "I heard the initial impact. Then you heard a boom right after that."
The distinctive, twin-finned tail section of the F-18D landed in the courtyard of the complex of two-story brick buildings.
Dozens of firefighters and emergency workers converged on the scene, smothering the apartment complex with foam.
The plane was part of a training squadron at Oceana, the largest Navy air facility on the East Coast, that prepares replacement Navy and Marine aviators and weapons officers for duty.
Some 250 aircraft are stationed at Oceana with its seven miles of runway, 20,000 military and civilian workers and 19 fighter/attack squadrons. The Navy says Oceana is the largest employer in Virginia Beach.
There are 37 tactical squadrons of F-18s operating from air stations worldwide and from 10 aircraft carriers. The Navy's precision air team, the Blue Angels, flies the F-18.
Virginia Beach is on the Atlantic Coast about 200 miles south of Washington, DC.
(Additional reporting by Ian Simpson; Editing by Sandra Maler and Frances Kerry)
=========
Investigation begins into cause of jet crash
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Bystanders help firefighters after F/A-18 crashes into apartments Bystanders help firefighters after F/A-18 crashes into apartments
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Good Friday
WTKR-TV3
10:10 a.m. EDT, April 8, 2012
VIRGINIA BEACH—
"You heard these three really loud booms. And by the time we turned and said something to each other, glass got thrown all the way to the living room," he says.
Sam Bertling was celebrating his birthday with friends when a Navy fighter jet crashed less than a football field from his home.
"It happened so fast," he said.
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This morning, peering over his backyard fence, he could see the blackened remains of the F-18's twin tail fins.
A block away, Tara Silvasy was on her couch reading when she heard explosions outside.
"I looked up and I heard this crash, and something had hit my house," she said.
A part of the plane smashed into the corner of her 24th Street home, crashing through the wall. At first she didn't know what happened. She ran outside and heard neighbors screaming about a jet crash.
"I looked out my window and that's when I saw the ejector seat, a pilot ejector seat. And then I really started to panic because then I thought maybe the pilot could have been in there, or been in the backyard," she says.
Today a team of sailors looking for jet debris visited Tara's house, where an ejection seat landed. The ruffled the grass and poked through the bushes. At a news conference today, officials said the scattered debris will be crucial to understanding what brought down the fighter.
"We will take all those parts and put them in Hangar 23 over at NAS Oceana and lay them all out," says Admiral John C. Harvey, Jr., Commander of U.S. Fleet Forces Command.
They will also look for the plane's digital data recorder, similar to an airliner's black box, to help them recreate the jet's tumultuous final moments that ended with a horrifying crash in an Oceanfront area neighborhood. But as awful as this was no one is believed to have perished in the Good Friday crash. Navy officials revealed even the battered pilots, a student and instructor, are home from the hospital. And at homes across Birdneck Road, neighbors are beginning to realize, sometimes with tears, how lucky they all were.
"Yesterday, early on, it was a bad day, but it got better. I was quite hysterical for a while. It is scary. Bad things could have happened yesterday. So I think we're all fortunate. And we're glad the pilots are OK," she says.
"I don't speak for anybody's religious beliefs, but the mayor and I both agreed if you want to find a miracle, what happened here yesterday meets that definition for me," said Admiral Harvey.
===========
http://www.rudaw.net/english/kurds/4608.html
Barzani Suggests Baghdad Might Use F-16s Against Kurds
09/04/2012 03:25:00By WLADIMIR van WILGENBURG
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Kurdistan Region President Massoud Barzani with US President Barak Obama during his recent visit to Washington. Photo courtesy of Falah Mustafa.
EXETER, England -- After increased tensions between the Iraqi and the Kurdish governments, Kurdistan Region President Massoud Barzani told Alhurra TV last Thursday that Baghdad is considering the use of F-16 fighter planes against the Kurds.Alhurra asked Barzani if PM Maliki was the person suggesting the use of F-16s against the Kurds, but Barzani did not answer the question. “I know who said it, but forgive me, I can't give more details," he said, adding that Kurds are becoming strangers in the Iraqi army, and are being fought from within. Barzani emphasized that there can never be a military solution to deal with the Kurds.
In the interview, Barzani says the issue with Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki is not personal, but it is about his dictatorial policies. "I still consider him a brother and a friend," he said. According to Barzani, division commanders in the Iraqi army are supposed to be approved by parliament, but this hasn't happened.
Barzani told Alhurra that he has confronted the Iraqi PM many times and been told by Maliki that he will act, but he hasn’t, and suggested there is talk of a “military solution” to confront the Kurds in Baghdad. Barzani said that in an official meeting with Iraqi military commanders, it was stated that they should wait for F-16s to arrive to help push back the Kurds.
Kurdish officials had earlier expressed worries over Iraq’s estimated $3 billion deal to buy 18 fighter jets from the United States, and the marginalization of Kurds within the Iraqi army, despite the fact that both the Iraqi chief of staff and the air force commander are Kurds.
Iraqi Kurds fear a repeat of the mass killings by the Iraqi regime. In the 1980s, the Iraqi army killed between 50,000 and 180,000 Kurds in the notorious Anfal campaign. But Iraqi officials have tried to reassure Kurds that the F-16s are meant to protect the borders of Iraq.
On the April 4, Izzat al-Shahbandar, member of Maliki’s State of Law Coalition, claimed on Al-Jazeera that the Kurds were trying to weaken the government and deprive them of heavy weapons. “There is a Kurdish effort to prevent a strong Iraqi state in terms of weapons, funds and Arab relations. We were deprived of our right to write in the constitution that Iraq is an Arab country."
Kamran Karadaghi, former chief of staff of Iraqi President Jalal Talabani, told Rudaw that it remains a possibility that Baghdad will use the Iraqi army against the Kurds. “To my knowledge, Barzani's comments are based on solid information straight from the horse's mouth. Why do you think Shia rulers turned from committed federalists to staunch centralists? I always warned that we should expect that when they have a strong army. Soon they will have F-16s.”
But other analysts rule out the possible use of F-16s against Kurds.
Reidar Visser, research fellow at the Norwegian Institute of International Affairs, known for his frequent commentary on Iraqi affairs, suggests that, “The only scenario in which the use of military force by Baghdad would be probable is in the case of a formal, unilateral annexation of Kirkuk by the Kurds.”
He added that, when Barzani mentioned the F-16s, “It sounded more like fully fledged warfare than skirmishes and clashes. There can be similar episodes to Khanaqin, etc., absolutely. But I think they will stay within certain boundaries unless the KRG moves to formally annex areas.”
In 2008, the disputed city of Khanaqin was the center of a face-off between Kurdish and Iraqi armed forces. According to the Christian Science Monitor, there was threat of a much wider conflict along the 300-mile fault line that divides the Kurds from the Arab parts of Iraq. In the past, U.S. forces established joint patrols and acted as peacemakers to prevent tensions from erupting in territories claimed by Baghdad and Erbil, but now the U.S. army isn’t in Iraq.
In November 2011, the handover of the Kirkuk airport to Iraqi authorities by U.S. forces sparked tensions between local Kurdish authorities and the Iraqi army over who should control it. Eventually, the Iraqi PM turned it into a civilian airport rather than one controlled by the Iraqi army. After the decision, there have been no tensions in Kirkuk between Kurdish and Iraqi security forces.
Hayder al-Khoei, a researcher at the London-based Centre for Academic Shi'a Studies, agrees that renewed tensions in the disputed areas are possible. “Some minor skirmishes possibly and maybe a few Mexican standoffs that go wrong. But no major military clashes. It's far too costly for both sides and eventually they will sit down in secret and negotiate a new division of the cake.”
He added that it is “nonsense” to consider that Baghdad would use F-16s against the Kurds. “Turkey has far more advanced fighter jets than Iraq could hope to have and cannot solve the PKK problem with military power. Even if the threat of pushing back the Kurds with F-16s was meant in the context of deploying gunboat diplomacy, it is highly unlikely the Kurds will be intimidated.”
Ben van Heuvelen, managing editor of Iraq Oil Report, based in Iraq, says the long-standing disputes between Kurdistan and Baghdad escalated into a full-blown crisis last week amidst the postponement of the national conference meant to reconcile the factions. “It began when the Kurds shut off oil exports. Then, Shahristani threatened to make cuts to Kurdistan's share of the federal budget.”
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Does seem that Barzani's US visit was designed to get Obama on the side of the Kurds with a promise that US military intervention would ensue if Iraq attacked the Kurds,,,nice try, but test the Iraqis and the US by declaring UDI....then you could call both their bluffs,imo
With oil at stake, who knows what Obama might do? Air patrol the N.Iraqi/Kurdish borders?
===============
The New Iraqi Air Force: F-16IQ Block 52 Fighters
Mar 15, 2012 15:04 EDT
Related Stories: Alliances, Americas - USA, Fighters & Attack, Issues - Political, Lockheed Martin, Middle East - Other, Pre-RFP, Rumours
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Latest updates: Pilot training begins in USA; Radar buy.
F-16s, Iraq
USAF F-16s, Iraq
(click to view full)
Iraq’s military has made significant strides in recent years, and the country is ordering more advanced military equipment to match. A slew of 2008 requests aimed to spend over $10 billion to buy advanced armored vehicles, strengthen its national military supply chain, build new bases and infrastructure for its army, and even buy advanced scout helicopters. Budget shortfalls have stretched out those buys, but that situation is easing, even as Iraq’s air force continues to make progress.
Anxious to complete its transformation and stand fully on its own, Iraq is pushing to begin flying its own fighters within the next couple of years – and is looking to buy American F-16s, rather than the Soviet and French fighters that made up Saddam’s air force:
Iraqi Air Force Evolution
Contracts and Key Events [updated]
Appendix A: Technology Options – F-16s… and Others
Appendix B: Political Background
Additional Readings
Iraqi Air Force Evolution
T-6A Iraqi
Iraqi T-6A trainers
(click to view full)
Iraq’s purchase of armed scout helicopters was significant, because an Air Force that had once been one of the strongest in the region is currently reduced to few dozen planes and helicopters, with no front-line fighters, or attack helicopters with precision munitions. The ARH order would be a significant step forward in aerial combat power, though they will be employed in the internal anti-terrorist battle rather than acting to secure Iraq’s sovereignty against neighboring countries.
That level of security requires the ability to control the air over one’s own country, which is why the USAF has always planned to remain in Iraq for a number of years as a guarantor. The question that remains is how long they will be able to remain as a guarantor, and when Iraq will have an air force that can realistically assume even minimum-level air policing duties.
Iraq is slowly building its fighter force from the ground up. Cessna light planes serve as primary trainers, and some of the larger Cessna 208B Caravans have been modified to perform surveillance or even combat strike roles. T-6A Texan II turboprops serve for the next level of fighter training. After that, Iraq’s pilots have to go to the USA, to train on supersonic T-38 Talons. That will change when Iraq orders its own advanced jet trainers, but that buy has been delayed by budget issues. Depending on which model Iraq chooses, these jet trainers may also end up serving a secondary combat role, until the country has enough front-line fighters. “T/A-50 Golden Eagles for Iraq?” has more coverage of Iraq’s choices.
In terms of its front-line fighters, its chosen F-16IQ Block 52s show a pattern of slight downgrades from the more advanced F-16C/D Block 52 base systems. The request’s determined avoidance of sophisticated air to ground weapons like GPS-guided JDAMs, or advanced air-to-air missiles, also seems designed to assuage regional fears. The net effect seems cleverly calibrated to give Iraq an air defense force that can handle aging threats from Syria or Iran relatively well, and perform strike missions within Iraq, without being a serious threat to more advanced air forces in the region. Regional memories among its Arab neighbors, as well as Israeli concerns, make that a smart starting point. Upgrades can always take place later, and the F-16IQs have at least some of the equipment required to handle more advanced weapons.
That first fighter purchase is a key step in Iraq’s evolution toward an autonomously secure state – but even delivery of working fighter jets only represents a first step, rather than a solution. The 2010 formal DSCA request was just the beginning of the process, which can take between 4 – 10 years from request to full operational capability. Appendix A covers Iraq’s technology options, while Appendix B focuses on politics and timelines. Meanwhile, Iraq will need to implement and stand up radar surveillance and command and control capabilities, in order to tie its fighters into a working system.
Realistically, Iraq will not be able to enforce full national air sovereignty before 2016 at the very earliest – and a number of analysts still believe it will be later than that.
Contracts and Key Events
F-16, AIM-9, AGM-65
USAF F-16 w. AIM-9L/M
fires AGM-65D Maverick
(click to view full)
March 14/12: Radars. Northrop Grumman Electronic Systems in Linthicum Heights, MD receives an $87.8 million dollar firm-fixed-price Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program contract, to provide 43 AN/APG-68v9 radar systems to the Republic of Iraq (22), the Royal Air Force of Oman (15), and the Royal Thai Air Force (6). Work will be performed in Linthicum Heights, MD, and is expected to be complete by March 3/15. The ASC/WWMK at Wright Patterson AFB, OH manages this contract (FA8615-12-C-6047).
The AN/APG-68v9 is the standard radar for new F-16C/D aircraft. Northrop Grumman cites a 33% increase in air-to-air detection range over earlier versions, plus ground-looking synthetic aperture radar with mapping and 2-foot point target response. They also claim that the radar’s reduced weight, power, and cooling help contribute to 25%-45% lower support costs, though their baseline comparison for those costs isn’t clear.
Jan 20/12: Training begins. Gannett’s Military Times reports that:
“The first of the Iraqi pilots that will learn how to fly F-16s recently arrived in Tucson with the 162nd Fighter Wing, an Air National Guard unit that specializes in training foreign pilots to fly F-16s, said wing spokesman Maj. Gabe Johnson. The Iraqi pilot is slated to start the academic part of his training on Jan. 23 followed by hands-on flying from February through September, Johnson said.”
Dec 12/11: 2nd Squadron Request. The US DSCA announces [PDF] Iraq’s request for what amounts to a 2nd operational squadron of F-16IQs, plus weapons. The request for 18 more fighters would bring Iraq’s total to 36, but unlike their initial December 2010 request, the figure given is up to $2.3 billion, instead of $4.2 billion; 1st-time sales are always more expensive.
Also included: site survey support equipment, Joint Mission Planning System, Ground Based Flight Simulator, tanker support, ferry services, Cartridge Actuated Devices/Propellant Actuated Devices (CAD/PAD), repair and return, modification kits, spares and repair parts, construction, publications and technical documentation, personnel training and training equipment, U.S. Government and contractor technical, engineering, and logistics support services, ground based flight simulator, and other related support. Along with the F-16s and support, Iraq is interested in:
24 F100-PW-229 or F110-GE-129 Increased Performance Engines. There are strong signs that the initial buy will use the F100-PW-229s from Pratt & Whitney, but a number of air forces fly a mix of both engines, including Egypt & South Korea. Time will tell.
24 APG-68v9 radar sets, the most modern radar available in Block 50 aircraft;
20 pairs of Conformal Fuel Tanks, which mount along the back/top of the F-16;
20 AN/ARC-238 Single Channel Ground and Airborne Radio System radios;
120 of VSI’s Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System (JHMCS) helmet-mounted displays. The previous request hadn’t included them, and 120 is a very significant number. It may serve as an early indicator that Iraq is looking at an all F-16 fleet for its 6 planned squadrons.
20 AN/APX-113 Advanced Identification Friend or Foe (AIFF) Systems (without Mode IV)
22 ITT ALQ-211 Advanced Integrated Defensive Electronic Warfare Suites (AIDEWS); or Raytheon Advanced Countermeasures Electronic Systems (ACES), including the ALQ-187 Electronic Warfare System and AN/ALR-93 Radar Warning Receiver. The previous DSCA request had only specified ACES;
22 AN/ALE-47 Countermeasures Dispensing Systems (CMDS);
20 Global Positioning Systems (GPS) and Embedded GPS/Inertial Navigation Systems (INS), using Standard Positioning Service (SPS) commercial code only
On the weapons front, the request includes:
19 M61 20mm Vulcan Cannons
10,000 rounds PGU-27A/B target practice 20mm ammunition
30,000 rounds PGU-28 SAPHEI (semi-armor piercing high explosive incendiary) 20mm ammunition
120 LAU-129/A Common Rail Launchers, which fit the F-16’s wingtips. They can be used with all AIM-9 missiles including the AIM-9X, and with the AIM-120 AMRAAM;
100 AIM-9L/M-8/9 Raytheon Sidewinder air-to-air missiles. These missiles are effective, and the AIM-9M missiles are still in widespread American use, but they’re a generation behind the current AIM-9X;
150 AIM-7M-F1/H Raytheon Sparrow Missiles. A couple of generations behind current beyond visual range air-to-air missiles. They lack the current AM-120 AMRAAM’s independent radar guidance and other improvements;
Undetermined number of LAU-117 Maverick launchers;
50 AGM-65D/G/H/K Raytheon Maverick Air to Ground Missiles;
230 MK-84 2000 lb. bombs;
800 MK-82 500 lb. bombs;
200 GBU-12 Paveway-II laser guided 500 lb. bombs;
50 GBU-10 Paveway-II laser guided 2,000 lb. bombs;
50 GBU-24 Paveway-III laser guided 2,000 lb. bombs with longer glide range and a “bunker busting” warhead;
20 Lockheed Martin AN/AAQ-33 Sniper or NGC AN/AAQ-28 LITENING advanced surveillance and targeting pods. As noted earlier, almost certain to be Sniper;
4 BAE F-9120 Advanced Airborne Reconnaissance Systems (AARS) or Goodrich DB-110 Reconnaissance Pods.
Potential contractors include:
BAE Advanced Systems in Greenlawn, NY
Boeing Corporation in Seattle, WA
Boeing Integrated Defense Systems in St Louis, MO; Long Beach, CA; and San Diego, CA
Raytheon Company in Lexington, MA; and Goleta, CA
Raytheon Missile Systems in Tucson, AZ
Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company in Fort Worth, TX
Lockheed Martin Missile and Fire Control in Dallas, TX
Lockheed Martin Simulation, Training and Support in Fort Worth, TX
Northrop-Grumman Electro-Optical Systems in Garland, TX
Northrop-Grumman Electronic Systems in Baltimore, MD
Pratt & Whitney United Technology Company in East Hartford, CT
General Electric Aircraft Engines in Cincinnati, OH
Goodrich ISR Systems in Danbury, CT
L3 Communications in Arlington, TX
ITT Defense Electronics and Services in McLean, VA
Symetrics Industries in Melbourne, FL
Iraqi Air Force chief Lt. Gen. Anwar Amin has admitted that the 1st F-16IQs won’t be operational before 2015 at the earliest, and USAF adviser Col. Steve Burgh adds that recruiting and training Iraqi pilots who can speak English, which has become the international language of aviation, remains a big challenge. Implementation of this particular proposed sale will require multiple trips to Iraq involving U.S. Government and contractor representatives for technical reviews/support, program management, and training over a period of 15 years. Agence France Presse | Fort Worth Star-Telegram | Stars & Stripes | Wall St. Journal [subscription].
Dec 5/11: Well, those mystery aircraft are still a mystery. But the initial funding for the F-16 sale isn’t. Lockheed Martin in Fort Worth, TX receives an $835 million firm-fixed-price, time-and-material and cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for 12 F-16C and 6 F-16D Block 52 base aircraft, plus support equipment, technical orders, integrated logistics support, and contractor logistics support.
There are still other expensive parts like Pratt & Whitney engines (tipped by the “Block 52” designation), Northrop Grumman radars, etc., still to be bought, and modifications to be made to bring the planes to F-16IQ Block 52 status – unless those are covered by the “technical orders”. Work will be performed in Fort Worth, TX, and the contract runs to May 30/18. The ASC/WWMK at Wright-Patterson AFB, OH manages this contract, as an agent for the government of Iraq (FA8615-12-C-6012).
Nov 4/11: Two separate Arabic reports by the Al-Baghdadeya satellite channel shed more light on Iraq’s timelines and plans. One quotes Iraq’s parliamentary Commission on Security and Defence, saying that Prime Minister Maliki will be pressing the USA for accelerated F-16 delivery by 2013, and denying any existing deals to lease further aircraft from the USA or elsewhere.
The other report quotes the same committee, which says that Iraq will need at least 6 fighter squadrons in order to exert full control of its airspace. That works out to about 78-96 aircraft, depending on how they choose to define squadrons. Absent foreign help, that will take some time.
Nov 14/11: Iraqi Parliamentary Security and Defense Committee Chair Hassan Sinead had an interesting teaser for us all. Translated from URA Agency’s report [in Arabic]:
“The next week will see the flight of military aircraft to Iraq since 2003, as part of our national armament efforts for the protection of Iraqi airspace.” Sinead did not mention any other details about the quality of the aircraft, saying only: “you will see next week.”
DJ Elliott, who compiles the Iraqi Order of Battle, had these thoughts regarding the possibilities:
Mirage F1s in storage in France.
Obsolete MiGs in Serbia [I hope not]
Iran returning some Fighters [unlikely]
Salvage [unlikely]
Loaned from US
Not a “Fighter” but instead just a Jet [E.G. the Czech L159s? This is my bet.]
DID agrees with his top-odds pick. The deal has been in the works for some time, and L-159s are just the next step up from Iraq’s fielded T-6 trainers, but they can carry a wide array of aerial and ground attack weapons. We see stored Mirage F1s as the 2nd most likely option, since there may be Iraqi pilots who have flown them before, and this is a critical requirement for a true stopgap. Loaned F-16s from the USA are certainly possible, with the proviso that pilot training requirements mean they won’t be effective for a year or so. The one “instant delivery” option we might add is a loan from Gulf Cooperation Council countries: a handful of Mirage 2000-9s from UAE (same issues as F-16), or retiring Tornado F3 Air Defense Variant fighters from Saudi Arabia. The latter could even come with Saudi pilots in one of the fighter’s 2 seats; it wouldn’t be the first time foreign pilots have flown for a Mideast air force.
F-16D Greece
Greek F-16D Block 52s
(via EPA: click to view full)
Sept 28/11: The Pentagon confirms that Iraq has an F-16 contract:
“The Iraqi government has transferred its first payment for 18 F-16C fighter aircraft, bringing Iraq closer to independently securing its airspace, Pentagon Press Secretary George Little said yesterday…. The fighters are the block 50/52 variant of the aircraft…”
Other reports place that payment’s value at $1.5 billion, and Defense News says that this will extend the F-16’s production line to 2015. US DoD | Defense News | Fort Worth Star-Telegram’s Sky Talk | Iran’s PressTV | Voice of America. See also Reuters: “Iraqi Air Defense: A Work in Progress.”
Sept 14/11: The USAF doesn’t quite confirm a deal, but they do give the strongest indication to date that one is close. Maj. Gen. Russell J. Handy, the commander of the 9th Air and Space Expeditionary Task Force-Iraq and director of Air Component Coordination Element-Iraq:
“I do not have any word yet that a letter of offer and acceptance is signed, but as you probably know, we did have a senior member of the Iraqi government visit Washington…. Everyone that I talk to at every level of government in Iraq is convinced that that is the right approach for them. And so we’re very encouraged by those words, and we feel that we’re very close to them signing that letter of offer and acceptance…. They are seeking to buy a larger number of F-16s than they had originally—up to 36…. This first letter of offer and acceptance is for 18 of them … we hope to hear very soon that’s signed, but no final word yet on that.”
July 30/11: Aswat-al-Iraq:
“Iraqi premier Nouri al-Maliki announced today the 36 fighters deal with USA. In a press conference, following the parliamentary meeting of today, he declared that he signed a contract to develop Iraqi Air Force by buying 36 F16 fighters. This announcement denotes that Iraq has doubled the fighters deal from 18 to 36 planes, which shall be financed from the increasing oil revenues.”
Accounts differ slightly, with other reports mentioning only documents that revived negotiations, rather than a signed contract. There is no clarity at press time, though it’s worth noting that Lockheed Martin has not made any announcement. Defense News | Reuters.
July 11-12/11: After the Wall Street Journal reports that negotiations have started up again for F-16 fighters and air defense systems, Iraqi government spokesman Ali al-Dabbagh denies it. He reiterates that the F-16 plan is postponed, not canceled, due to budget issues. WSJ | Bloomberg.
Feb 16/11: Iraq is shifting the $900 million down payment on F-16s into food aid support, as global currency devaluation, a long global cycle of under-investment in farming, and some event-related shocks conspire to create significant inflation in global food prices. That has already led to significant unrest in many middle eastern countries. Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki has said that 6 million Iraqis out of a population of around 31 – 32 million possessed food ration permits, and pledged to increase spending on that program from $3 billion to $4 billion.
Iraqi government spokesman Ali Dabbagh has now stated that the F-16 money has been diverted toward improving food ration subsidies, and finance committee member Mohammed Khalil has confirmed it, adding that Iraq’s projected budget deficit of $13.3 billion ($68.56 billion revenues – $81.86 billion spending) also played a role in the decision.
That deficit’s size suggests that the F-16s won’t be replaced by a cheaper option like Mirage F1s, either, which creates some large long-term questions regarding Iraq’s defenses and foreign military presences. One option might be to station Gulf Co-operation Council country fighters at Iraqi bases, which would surely represent a seismic reversal from the Saddam years. Another option might be to have NATO assume air policing duties, as a fig leaf that could keep a substantial US presence. Middle East Online | Agence France Presse.
Jan 27/11: The French Ambassador to Iraq, Boris Boillon, confirms that France is proposing a deal for 18 Mirage fighters. The planes are not Mirage 2000s, however, but retrofitted Mirage F1s. Iraq operated that type before the US invasion, and had 18 ordered aircraft impounded by France as part of the international sanctions regime. Morocco operates an upgraded variant, the Mirage F1 MF2000, which may provide some guidance regarding potential retrofits. The planes are reportedly being offered for EUR 733 million ($997 million), or about 1/4 the price of 18 new F-16IQs.
Ambassador Boillon cited that price when he presented the French deal as a complementary option, rather than a competing choice. Tactical Report, on the other hand, contends that Iraqi Air Force Lt-Gen. Anwar Ameen prefers the Mirage 2000v9. The UAE is the only operator of that type, and wants France to buy back its fleet in return for a deal covering new Rafale fighters. Expatica France | Tactical Report | UPI.
Jan 26/11: Iraqi Government spokesman Ali al-Dabbagh tells a press conference that the Council of Ministers has approved the purchase of 18 F-16s, and budgeted an unspecified sum, thought to be a $900 million down payment. Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki who is also the acting Defense Minister, would negotiate the deal’s final parameters. There has been talk of a $13 billion weapons buy, which would include the existing DSCA request for F-16IQs, but no confirmation as yet. The USA will reportedly deliver the F-16s to Iraq within 2-3 years, but in the meantime, and even for some time thereafter, Iraq will not be able to police its own airspace effectively. Iraq Order of Battle author DJ Elliott believes that 2018 would be the earliest date.
The F-16 is not Iraq’s only option. France is offering Mirage F1s, and DJ Elliott reports that the Iraqis may also be looking at a 3rd option: China & Pakistan’s JF-17 Thunder. The JF-17 fills the same lower cost, non-interfering seller requirement as the Mirages, but offers a more modern aircraft than the Mirage F1, from an Islamic vendor. Al-Sumaria News [in Arabic] | Iraq-Business News | Saudi Arab News re: Iraqi readiness | DJ Elliott re: Iraqi readiness.
Mirage F1s
French Mirage F1s
(click to view full)
Dec 14/10: Aswat al-Iraq reports that Iraq’s Council of Ministers authorized the government to negotiate with the USA to buy 6 F-16s, and also authorized the minister also to continue negotiations with the French side to buy 18 Mirage 2000 jets as of 2012. Nearby, the UAE also flies this mix, and both aircraft are popular with countries in the Gulf region.
The composition of this set appears to indicate an interim buy, and there is some question regarding the accuracy of the Mirage designation. Continued negotiations could also involve the 18 Mirage F1s that Iraq ordered under Saddam, but France never delivered. France has sold used Mirage 2000s to other countries as well, vid. Brazil, and it may be in their interest to offer the Iraqis an aircraft that could become the foundation for a longer term force split. The UAE is looking to replace its Mirage 2000v9 fleet, which is very advanced by most standards, but they have asked Dassault to buy back their Mirage fleet in exchange for a Rafale sale. An Iraqi Air Force that’s already flying Mirage 2000s, and looking for a good price, would offer a natural option for some kind of 3-way deal. Time will tell.
Sept 15/10: The US DSCA announces [PDF] Iraq’s formal request to buy 18 “F-16IQ” fighters and assorted weapons, at a cost of up to $4.2 billion. Items requested show a pattern of slight downgrades, alongside advanced base Block 50/52 systems. Its determined avoidance of sophisticated air to ground weapons like GPS-guided JDAMs, or advanced air-to-air missiles, seems designed to assuage regional fears. The exact agreed-upon official request includes:
18 F-16IQ aircraft;
24 F100-PW-229 or F110-GE-129 Increased Performance Engines;
24 APG-68v9 radar sets, the most modern radar available in Block 50 aircraft;
20 pairs of Conformal Fuel Tanks, which mount along the back/top of the F-16;
20 AN/APX-113 Advanced Identification Friend or Foe (AIFF) Systems (without Mode IV)
22 Advanced Countermeasures Electronic Systems (ACES), including the ALQ-187 Electronic Warfare System and AN/ALR-93 Radar Warning Receiver;
22 AN/ALE-47 Countermeasures Dispensing Systems (CMDS);
20 Global Positioning Systems (GPS) and Embedded GPS/Inertial Navigation Systems (INS), (using Standard Positioning Service (SPS) commercial code only)
The wording does not refer to “excess defense articles,” so presumably these will be new-build planes whose equipment suggests a downgraded F-16C/D Block 50 or so base standard. Plus, publications and technical documentation, personnel training and training equipment, ground based flight simulators, support equipment, tanker support and ferry services, modification kits, Cartridge Actuated Devices/Propellant Actuated Devices (CAD/PAD), spares and repair parts, repair and return, site survey (usually for basing), construction, and other forms of U.S. Government and contractor support services.
The order also requests weapons and equipment to arm the fighters. Here, too, a number of requests reveal downgraded or past-generation equipment, alongside other requests which are top of the line:
19 M61 20mm Vulcan multi-barrel cannons, which are mounted internally;
36 LAU-129/A Common Rail Launchers, which fit the F-16’s wingtips. They can be used with all AIM-9 missiles including the AIM-9X, and with the AIM-120 AMRAAM;
200 AIM-9L/M-8/9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles. These missiles are effective, and the AIM-9M missiles are still in widespread American use, but they’re a generation behind the current AIM-9X;
150 AIM-7M-F1/H Sparrow Missiles. A couple of generations behind current beyond visual range air-to-air missiles. They lack the current AM-120 AMRAAM’s independent radar guidance and other improvements;
50 AGM-65D/G/H/K Maverick Air to Ground Missiles;
200 GBU-12 Paveway-II laser guided 500 lb. bombs;
50 GBU-10 Paveway-II laser guided 2,000 lb. bombs;
50 GBU-24 Paveway-III laser guided 2,000 lb. bombs with longer glide range and a “bunker busting” warhead;
20 AN/AAQ-33 Sniper or AN/AAQ-28 LITENING advanced surveillance and targeting pods. Almost certain to be Lockheed Martin’s Sniper, given LITENING’s Israeli origins;
4 F-9120 Advanced Airborne Reconnaissance Systems (AARS) or DB-110 Reconnaissance Pods (RECCE)
The principal contractors include some firms who will only be selected if their particular technologies are chosen. These are highlighted via brackets, though it’s also possible for those contractors to offer other items not subject to competition within this sale. Lockheed Martin Aeronautics is the base F-16 manufacturer, and system integrator:
Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company in Fort Worth, TX
Lockheed Martin Simulation, Training and Support in Fort Worth, TX
BAE Advanced Systems in Greenlawn, NY (F-9120 AARS pod)
Boeing Corporation in Seattle, WA
Boeing Integrated Defense Systems St Louis, MO; Long Beach, CA; and San Diego, CA
Raytheon Company in Lexington, MA and Goleta, CA
Raytheon Missile Systems in Tucson, AZ
Lockheed Martin Missile and Fire Control in Dallas, TX (Sniper pod)
Northrop-Grumman Electro-Optical Systems in Garland, TX (LITENING pod)
Northrop-Grumman Electronic Systems in Baltimore, MD
Pratt & Whitney United Technology Company in East Hartford, CT (F100-PW-229 engine)
General Electric Aircraft Engines Cincinnati, OH (F110-GE-129 IPE engine)
Goodrich ISR Systems Danbury, CT (DB-110 pod)
L3 Communications in Arlington, TX
ITT Defense Electronics and Services in McLean, VA
Symetrics Industries in Melbourne, FL
There are no known offset agreements in connection with this proposed sale, but implementation will require multiple trips to Iraq involving U.S. Government and contractor representatives for technical reviews/support, program management, and training over a period of 15 years.
Aug 2/10: The Government of Iraq has signed an agreement with the U.S. for 10 Iraqi Air Force pilots to begin prerequisite F-16 training. “This agreement follows the request submitted by the GoI to purchase 18 new Block 52 F-16 airplanes.”
The pilots are projected to begin training in the U.S. this fall, and upon graduation, these pilots will have completed all prerequisite flight training necessary to move immediately into F-16 training. The 12-17 month program will include all necessary components of T-6A Texan II and T-38 Talon training, including a course called Introduction to Fighter Fundamentals. The intensive flight training will be complemented with specialized English language training for aviation. Pentagon DVIDS.
April 9/10: AHN quotes General Nasier A. Abadi, the Deputy Chief of Staff of the Iraqi Joint Forces:
“On the building of the Iraqi military forces, the general said the need of today is to build “Airforce” strength as till now most of the budget went to building army which has now “14 divisions.” From now on, “70% of the budget will go to Airforce,” he noted.
Although the Iraqi government will need at least “three sources (quotations),” for Airforce procurements, the general explained that there is a “special deal with the U.S. over the supply of F-16 fighter jets,” with a plan to partner with F-16 squadrons based in Iraq to “train” Iraqi pilots.”
April 6/10: DJ Elliott, who pens the Iraqi Security Forces Order of Battle, reports a tip that:
“Iraq has finally and formally requested 24 F-16s from the US. At this time they are not at the ‘order’ stage but as I noted in my commentary to you in November 2008 the possibility of an Iraqi LOA by the end of this year – if President Obama agrees – is feasible. Delivery could start as early as next year but likely in 2012/13 time frame.”
That tip came without confirmation or sourcing, but DJ later received a verbal confirmation from Scramble magazine, and adds:
“Boss of the IqAF thought that he would need 96 F16s minimum. 24 indicates the start of the first of at least 4 orders. Looks like the planned target is still 2020.”
The next step for Iraq is formal DSCA publication of their request, once it gets through the US State Department’s bureaucracy and political approvals. Congress would then have 30 days to block the sale. Failing that, a contract/ Letter of Acceptance could be signed.
March 5/10: DJ Elliott, who pens the Iraqi Security Forces Order of Battle, offers his assessment of both the Iraqi Air Force by 2012, and the most probable USAF force required to secure the country:
“In 2012, the Iraqi Air Force will not have any fighters unless they are provided with used aircraft. Even in that case, they will be 3 years at minimum training personnel to make those aircraft a functional and effective air defense force. Helicopter support forces will be further in development but, still under strength and in training. Fixed-wing transports will still be in delivery. Only the reconnaissance and training wings will be [fully] operational in 2012.”
....US Air Force in Iraq – Will probably base 6 Fighter Squadrons at Tallil, Balad, and Al Asad. Their duties will include training the Iraqi Air force in air combat maneuvering and providing air defense until they are operational. This will probably be needed until 2018-2020, however, delays in delivery and training could extend this requirement.
US Air Force in theater support – Transport aviation would probably be based in Kuwait to provide the majority of the supply needed by air. Additional aviation could be rapidly deployed to reinforce from Europe and the US if needed.”
Nov 22/09: Al-Sabah reports [in Arabic] that Iraqi Prime Minister Talabani’s visit to France:
”....resulted in the signing defense agreements to train the Iraqi army and updated on 18 aircraft (Mirage F-1) and helicopters, and provide 300 scholarships,...”
Thanks to DJ Elliott for assistance with translation. The Mirage F1s were left in France for servicing during the 1990s, and apparently remained there due to arms embargoes imposed after Operation Desert Storm. The report offers no delivery date, but fielding Mirage F1s would offer Iraq a near-term option that would be difficult to fulfill with new-build aircraft.
Oct 20/09: Lockheed Martin CFO Bruce Tanner, discussing Q3 2009 earnings, reveals that Morocco and Iraq will be delaying their planned F-16 purchases “beyond 2011”. Q3 Podcast [MP3] | Q3 Earnings slides [PDF] | Flight International.
Sept 9/09: U.S. Air Forces Central have sent a team to assess how Iraq will maintain sovereignty of their airspace after U.S. Forces withdraw from Iraq on Dec 31/11. From Multi-National Security Transition Command – Iraq:
“During their visit to Iraq in early September, the Air Sovereignty Assessment Team met with the Iraqi minister of defense, the deputy commander of the Iraqi air force, the Iraqi air force staff, and U.S. advisors attached to Multi-National Security Transition Command-Iraq Iraqi Training and Advisory Mission- Air Force.
“The goal is to make sure Iraq maintains sovereignty by bridging the gap after we leave,” said Lt. Col. Daniel E. Rauch, deputy advisor from ITAM-Air Force to the Iraqi air staff for planning. “The accelerated schedule of the Security Agreement creates a period of time when Iraq does not possess the foundational capability to ensure air sovereignty or defend against the perceived threat.”
July 28/09: Looks like the timeline is indeed serious. An American Forces Press Service article says the US Air Force is sending an assessment team to Iraq to look at how the Iraqi military can field an air defense once American forces leave in 2011.
“The Iraqis probably will not be able to field advanced air-to-air manned interceptors by the time U.S. forces leave the country at the end of 2011, [Army Gen. Raymond T. Odierno, commander of Multinational Force Iraq] said. The U.S. team will work with Iraqi officials to look for creative solutions to the problem, the general said…. “We’re going to bring this team over here to try and get them some creative solutions that might allow them to have some capacity by 2011,” Odierno said, citing use of retired U.S. F-16 fighters or the purchase of aircraft from other countries as possible steps in the process.”
March 31/09: Reuters quotes IqAF head Lt. Gen. Anwar Ahmed as saying that Iraq wants to buy an initial squadron of F-16s in 2009, to help guard against perceived threats from Iran and Syria.
”[Ahmed] said he hoped to sign a contract for 18 advanced F-16s… “This is very important to us… It is a priority.” Provided funds are made available by Iraq’s Parliament, he said his goal was to acquire up to 96 F-16s through 2020. He cited the F-16C/D Block 50/52 models now being produced for Poland, Israel, Greece and Pakistan….
If the funds are freed and a deal is wrapped up this year, the first two Iraqi-piloted F-16s would be patrolling Iraqi skies by 2012, he said…. Ahmed, 54, said he had met a U.S. Air Force team in Baghdad on March 18 to discuss F-16 purchases and held follow-up talks with Pentagon officials on Tuesday. So far, he said, U.S. officials supported Iraq’s push to acquire the F-16.”
Sept 5/08: The Wall Street Journal reports that Iraq is seeking 36 “advanced model” F-16s.
Appendix A: Technology Options
F-16F Block 60 UAE
UAE F-16F
(click to view full)
So, far, Iraq has picked 18 modified F-16C/D Block 52 fighters as its initial core. That’s a start, but its parliamentary Commission on Security and Defence has indicated that 6 squadrons of fighter jets (about 96-100) is the minimum required for control of Iraqi airspace.
Iraq can choose to meet that need by buying more F-16s, or it can look to a mixed fleet, and try to make training rather than manufacturing the gating item for readiness. Technology options for Iraq’s front-line fighters separated into 2 tiers: F-16 options, and supplementary aircraft.
In September 2008, the Wall Street Journal’s use of the term “advanced F-16s” was generally interpreted to mean the standard F-16 C/D Block 50/52+ models requested or bought by recent customers like Chile, Greece, Morocco, Poland, Pakistan, Romania, Turkey et. al. Even Iraq’s DSCA request could not come to pass without technology export approvals, and clearance for various F-16 types, and for equipment and weapons sold in conjunction with the aircraft, are a political issue in the region. Fortunately for Iraq, the F-16 is already flown by a number of countries in the region, including Bahrain, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates. These aircraft include a number of early F-16A/B models, plus a larger set of upgraded early models and F-16C/Ds. Which is more or less what Iraq ended up ordering in its downgraded F-16IQ Block 52s.
The question is what comes next.
Advanced F-16 variants beyond even the Block 50 models also exist in the region. Israel flies all F-16 models including its own F-16I, which modifies the F-16D Block 52+ and adds a lot of Israeli electronics, equipment, and weapons. The UAE is a another exception, flying the world’s most advanced F-16s: the F-16 E/F Block 60 Desert Falcon with built-in infrared surveillance and targeting, the AN/APG-80 AESA radar, and an engine upgrade, among other improvements.
Both of these options are future non-starters, given the impossibility of an Israeli sale, and the ground reality that some of Iraq’s political parties have close ties to Iran.
Iraq could choose to keep ordering similar F-16s. The formal US DSCA request did match DID’s earlier estimate of $4-6 billion for an initial new-build fighter fleet of 18, plus its associated spares, weapons, etc. Subsequent deals can be expected to be cheaper, and what Iraq actually spends will be set by negotiations, but ramping up to a full fleet of 96 new planes won’t be cheap, or fast.
One way to reduce the additive total for subsequent jet purchases is if Iraq chose to buy some used F-16s, like the AIM-7 Sparrow missile capable American “F-16 A/B ADF” models bought by Jordan and Portugal. Former US Air National Guard flies F-16C/D Block 25 aircraft have been offered to Romania, for example, and a similar possibility still exists for Iraq as a stopgap measure. American F-16 C/D Block 30-42 aircraft may also be available.
The ultimate question is not one of money, however, or even of model, but of time. The 2010 formal DSCA request is just the beginning of the process. Actual signed contracts can take anywhere between 30 days to 4+ years after the official request, and in this case, they took a year. Fighter aircraft delivery times add another 1-3 years. Full training and proficiency adds another 2-3 years.
An Iraqi state that will need serious national fighter options as of 2012, was always certain to be disappointed by even the best timelines. Buying used aircraft for immediate delivery can help, which is why a future buy of used F-16s cannot be entirely ruled out.
Mirage 2000-9
Mirage 2000-9
(click to view full)
Another way around the problem is to induct more than 1 type of fighter, raising numbers quickly through parallel purchases.
The most prominent option may already be flying nearby. The United Arab Emirates currently operates a fleet of just over 60 Mirage 2000-9s, an advanced variant that’s comparable to any F-16C/D now flying. Their Thales RDY-2 radars are upgraded for full ground strike capability, including SAR/GMTI (synthetic aperture radar with ground moving target indicator). That’s complemented by the Shehab laser targeting pod (a variant of Thales’ Damocles), the Nahar navigation pod, and a datalink to improve integration with MBDA’s MICA-ER radar guided missiles. This information feeds into upgraded cockpit color displays, and the optional TopSight helmet mounted display. Defensive systems and internal navigation also feature strong improvements over earlier Mirage 2000 models.
The Emirates are considering a replacement purchase of Dassault Rafale fighters, which would be even more advanced than their F-16 E/F Desert Falcons. As part of that deal, however, they’re pushing for France to buy back their Mirage fleet. France isn’t likely to do do that without a ready buyer, and the new Iraqi Air Force would be the best option by far for all concerned. France would cement its position with a new-old customer, the UAE could assist Iraq with training and transition, and both countries wold also have financial and geo-political interests served by the transaction.
It remains to be seen whether that deal can be done. There is reported interest within Iraq’s air force, but there are also budgetary limitations, given the apparent commitment to F-16s. A Mirage 2000-9 buy would offer Iraq a diversified supplier base, but it would also carry a completely different maintenance and weapons base, driving up the air force’s operating costs and reducing its flexibility. On the plus side, a 3-way deal with the UAE would offer very rapid delivery, and local support.
In the mean time, France is offering Iraq a low-cost supplement: upgraded Mirage F1s. Iraq operated this type for a number of years, but France impounded 24 of the 126 ordered F1EQ planes as part of the sanctions effort against Saddam Hussein. The products of a September 1985 order wouldn’t be very helpful in 2010, but the type’s own state of the art has advanced since then. Dassault and Thales have been working with Morocco on a “Mirage F1 MF2000” upgrade, which would bring the type to near-parity with many of the systems and weapons used on the Mirage 2000.
A similar set of upgraded Mirage F1s would offer Iraq a fast near-term solution. One that’s available by 2012 and familiar to some of its old pilots, while forming a natural bridge to future sales of Mirage 2000 or Rafale aircraft, at only 25-33% of the cost of a new F-16 buy. Iraq has been looking to recover EUR 651 million for that failed delivery, which could factor into negotiations. On the other hand, France forgave 80% of Iraq’s EUR 4.8 billion debts, and could easily argue that any damages have already been redressed as part of that EUR 3.84 billion forgiveness package.
FC-1/ JF-17, armed
FC-1/ JF-17, armed
(click to view full)
There are also rumors of a wild card option: Pakistan and China’s JF-17 Thunder, which entered operational service with Pakistan in 2010. The type uses a Russian RD-93 engine, derived from the RD-33 engines that used to equip Iraqi MiG-29s, but the weapons and avionics are Chinese. Reliability would be lower than F-16s or Mirages, but performance would be similar to mid-range F-16 models or upgraded Mirage F1 MF2000s. The initial cost would be cheap compared to other new aircraft choices, but the planes would require their own maintenance, supply and weapons chains, driving up long term operating costs.
Unless negotiations with Lockheed Martin go seriously sideways, the JF-17s would appear to be dueling with Dassault’s Mirages for the role of “possible F-16 supplement” in the new Iraqi air force. Unlike France, China doesn’t have a deep relationship history with Iraq’s military, or a strong presence in the region. What it does have is state-linked firms that have bought into significant Iraqi oil leases, and growing international credibility as a “no strings” supplier and political backer. Pakistan’s role in the JF-17’s design would even give it a unique positioning as an “Islamic alternative.”
Beyond the operational questions, lies a political issue. An Iraqi buy of Chinese fighters would send shockwaves throughout the Middle East. It would be seen as the dawn of a Chinese role as a serious player in the region, beyond its current relationships with rogue nations like Iran and Sudan. That regional impact has both attractions and downsides for the Iraqi government.
Appendix B: Political Background
F-16 armed, Balad
USAF F-16, Balad AB
(click to view full)
While events can always overtake even the best of plans, Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki has told reporters that he wants all American forces to be able to leave Iraq by 2011. The insertion of language by hostile Iraqi parties that would have made US soldiers subject to prosecution under Iraqi laws, and a surprising lack of focus by the USA on negotiating an extended Status of Forces agreement, will effectively end the US presence by 2012.
An Iraqi request for F-16s would have fit well with that strategy – if it had been made in early 2006.
No country can remain sovereign if it cannot control its own air space, and having its own fighter aircraft available for missions would give Iraqis far more leeway to make independent decisions about the future direction, training, and use of their military. The problem is that procurement, plus training, plus qualification of that air force for serious combat, takes years. With no formal request published as of early April 2010, and a contract that only begins at the end of 2011, Iraq has no realistic internal options.
That 2011 timetable was always a tall order; in fact, it was probably impossible from the outset. Even as the war in Iraq calmed down, and the insurgency was defeated, the USAF operated about 300 aircraft of all types in Iraq, supplemented by US Navy fighters. That force will not be replaced by 18 F-16s – nor would such a force provide sovereignty insurance against Iraq’s neighbors. Indeed, the new Iraqi Air Force is unlikely to have any operational F-16s before 2013 at the very earliest.
If Iraq wishes to go beyond air-air roles for its F-16s and perform close air support as well, its air force will find that this is a demanding task all its own, requiring pilot practice, followed by combined-arms training with properly equipped ground forces, in order to be effective. The USAF has deliberately slowed Iraq’s progress in this area for various operational and political reasons, and so there is no current base of expertise or equipment for the IqAF to build upon. If the IqAF wishes to be able to replicate the crucial role performed by American and British fighter jets in the Iraqi Army’s March 2008 Battle for Basra, therefore, or to support Iraqi troops in the event of hostile incursions from its neighbors, it will need to allocate even more lead time before it can be effective.
In the end, all of the relevant decisions have been political, rather than military, choices. That includes the question of whether the USAF remained in Iraq after 2011, in order to guarantee defense of the country’s air space.
At present, the odds are that Iraq will fly F-16 C/D class aircraft beginning in late 2013, with full effectiveness coming around 2016-2018. Our general assumption has involved a reduced but still present USAF, which would remain in Iraq beyond 2011. A combination of Iraqi demands and Obama administration fecklessness appears to have ended that.
Which still leaves the question of how to guarantee Iraqi air space.
One option might be to station Gulf Co-operation Council country fighters at Iraqi bases, while flying AWACS patrols using Saudi E-3s. That would surely be a seismic reversal from the Saddam years, and could be presented as a regional peace and healing initiative, but Arab rivalries and Iranian influence make that option more politically complex than it may appear.
Another option might be to have NATO assume air policing duties, as a fig leaf that could keep a substantial US presence. The dual challenge there would be (a) convincing budget squeezed NATO allies to join; and (b) managing the quasi-Ottomanist Turkish AKP government’s double-edged interest in being a significant part of (a).
Additional Readings
F-16.NET – F-16 Versions
Dassault Aviation – Mirage 2000-9
DID – Pakistan & China’s JF-17 Fighter Program
DID – T/A-50 Golden Eagles for Iraq? If inducted, these supersonic trainers and capable lightweight fighters would offer a significant boost to the 2011 IqAF. The competition has become broader of late, and the Iraqis may even be leaning toward used L-159s to save money.
DID – The Penny Drops: Iraq Chooses its COIN Aircraft. The T-6A trainers are the IqAF’s intermediate training fleet, and their armed AT-6B version would give the IqAF its first fixed-wing close support capabilities.
DID – Bird Dogs for the Iraqi Air Force. Cessna 172 and 208Bs – some of which have become RC-208Bs and AC-208Bs.
DID (July 12/11) – The Missing Links: A Realistic Appraisal of the Iraqi Military
DJ Elliott’s Montrose Toast (Dec 26/10) – Iraqi Aviation Update December 2010
DJ Elliott’s Montrose Toast (March 5/10) – US Forces-Iraq after 2012? “The Iraqi Security Forces are not going to be ready for self-defense in 2012. They were never planned to be ready in 2012…”
Reuters (March 31/09) – Iraq starts policing borders with unmanned planes. Type undisclosed. “Interior Ministry spokesman Major-General Abdul Karim Khalaf said the drones would police all Iraq’s borders and their first mission took place two weeks ago.”
Defense News (Oct 16/08) – Iraqi Brass Confirm Interest in F-16s, Armed Helos
Tags: f-16iqaf, iraqf-16
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ALERT
US deploys most advanced F-22 fighters in UAE amid Iran, Arab tensions
By Areeb Hasni - May 1st, 2012 (No Comment)
4
Washington: The United States has deployed sophisticated F-22 fighter jets to the United Arab Emirates amid deepening tensions between Iran and its UAE over three Islands, news agencies reported.
The F-22s, the most advanced fighter in the US fleet, would be sent to the Al-Dhafra air base in the United Arab Emirates.
Territorial disputes between Iran and the United Arab Emirates over three islands in the Gulf have flared recently, with Washington voicing support for Abu Dhabi’s stance.
Iran has condemned US deployment of F- 22 in UAE. ============= Exclusive: U.S., Lockheed reach deal on Israeli F-35s Thu, Jul 26 15:57 PM EDT By Andrea Shalal-Esa WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The Pentagon has reached an agreement with Lockheed Martin Corp on a $450 million program to enhance electronic warfare equipment on the F-35 fighter jet, and integrate Israeli-unique systems beginning in 2016, according to sources familiar with the negotiations. The deal, to be finalized in coming weeks, marks a big step forward for Israel's $2.75 billion agreement to buy 19 F-35 jets, which was signed in October 2010 and includes options for up to 75 of the radar-evading fighters. The Pentagon said the Israeli foreign arms sale could be worth up to $15.2 billion if all options are exercised, when it first approved the sale in September 2008. "This agreement kicks off the Israeli program," said one of the sources, who was not authorized to speak on the record. "Now all of the agreements are in place." The F-35 will allow for even greater collaboration in the coming years with Israel, a critical strategic ally for the United States at a time when much of the Middle East is in turmoil. The deal comes as Defense Secretary Leon Panetta prepares to visit Israel next week where he will discuss heightened tensions with Iran, which on Thursday underscored its support for Syria despite its brutal crackdown on a 16-month uprising. It also provides a vote of confidence in the embattled F-35 program, whose cost and technology challenges have overshadowed a year of progress in flight testing. The deal will allow increased participation in the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program by Israeli companies, including Elbit Systems Ltd and state-owned Israel Aerospace Industries, which will start building wings for the radar-evading warplane. IAI already builds wings for the F-16 fighter jet, the world's most widely used fighter, also built by Lockheed. Elbit, in a joint venture with Rockwell Collins, makes the advanced helmet used by pilots on the single-seat F-35. Agreement on development of the new Israeli version of the F-35 will allow Israel to install its own radio and datalink systems, as well as other equipment, on the jets it is buying. But the deal also covers enhancements to the airplane's electronic warfare capabilities that will benefit the United States, Israel and the other nine countries that either have already ordered fighter planes, or plan to in coming years. The radar-evading, multirole F-35 is the Pentagon's costliest arms purchase, expected to top $396 billion for 2,443 aircraft in three models through the mid-2030s. Lockheed and its subcontractors are building the stealthy warplane for the U.S. Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps along with Britain and seven other co-development partners -- Italy, Turkey, Canada, Australia, Denmark, Norway and the Netherlands. In addition to Israel, Japan also has a signed agreement to buy the F-35, which was designed to replace a range of fighter, strike and ground-attack aircraft, including the F-16. The Defense Department this year postponed production of 179 F-35s until after 2017, stretching development and testing in an effort to curb costly retrofits and save money. The latest restructuring, the third such major revamp, added 33 months and $7.9 billion to the development plan. Lockheed Martin, the Pentagon's No. 1 supplier by sales, is developing the F-35 with Northrop Grumman Corp and Britain's BAE Systems PLC. Britain initially invested $2 billion in the F-35's development, the most of any of the eight partner nations. Work on the electronic warfare enhancements will be done largely by BAE Systems, the sources said. (Reporting By Andrea Shalal-Esa; Editing by Tim Dobbyn) ======= Iraq says signs contract for 18 F-16 fighter jets Thu, Oct 18 12:36 PM EDT BAGHDAD (Reuters) - Iraq has signed a contract to buy its second set of 18 F-16 fighters from the United States, part of a deal to purchase 36 of the jets to rebuild its air force, Iraq's acting defense minister said on Thursday. Baghdad signed an initial deal for the first set of 18 jets in September last year valued at roughly $3 billion and those aircraft are scheduled to be delivered by September 2014. "The (new) contract is no different from the first contract in terms of the technical and financial details. This handover will be finished in 2018," acting Defense Minister Sadoun al-Dulaimi told reporters after a meeting U.S. officials in Baghdad. Duliami said Iraq was also talking with U.S. officials about buying air defense systems and Apache helicopters. Iraq has had no real air force since the 2003 U.S.-led invasion that toppled Saddam Hussein. Baghdad, which has also signed military contracts with Russia and the Czech Republic this month, says it will not be able to defend its airspace until 2020. (Reporting by Suadad al-Salhy; Writing by Patrick Markey; Editing by Andrew Heavens) ===============
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