Iraq negotiates the purchase of 14 Rafale F4 fighter jets from France with a focus on air superiority

English Posted on  —by Carro e motos
Iraq negotiates the purchase of 14 Rafale F4 fighter jets from France with a focus on air superiority
Iraq negotiates the purchase of 14 Rafale F4 fighter jets from France with a focus on air superiority (X @shadowh55543098)

Iraq and France are close to finalizing an agreement for the purchase of 14 Rafale F4 fighter jets, negotiations that began in 2022 and are expected to be formalized during 2026.

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According to the French specialized press, the package includes ten single-seat Rafale C aircraft and four twin-seat Rafale B versions, marking a significant step forward in the modernization of the Iraqi Air Force.

In addition to the aircraft, the contract under discussion includes long-range air-to-air missiles such as the MICA NG and the Meteor, as well as high-precision air-to-ground weaponry. The Rafale’s capabilities in employing AASM 250 and AASM 1000 guided bombs are cited as one of the decisive factors for Baghdad, as they provide greater operational flexibility and regional deterrence power.

The potential acquisition reflects Iraq’s dissatisfaction with its current F-16IQs, simplified versions of the F-16 that are limited in the use of modern weaponry and equipped with inferior electronic systems.

Iraqi pilots, who regularly train with French forces under Operation Chammal, have observed the Rafale’s superiority in practice, while restrictions imposed by the United States have kept the country’s F-16s primarily focused on ground-attack missions.

Source: Militarnyi | Photo: X @shadowh55543098 | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team

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