Iraq to get new air defence systems as US-led coalition mission ends

Iraq has finalized significant contracts for air defense systems and anticipates their arrival "very soon" as the US-led anti-ISIS coalition concludes its mission on September 30. Sabah Al Numan, a military spokesman for Prime Minister Ali Al Zaidi, emphasized that modernizing Iraq's air defense is now a top priority in the country's weapons procurement process.

Al Numan stated that reputable sources from the US, South Korea, and Turkey will provide the new systems. The government has drawn up a central plan to deploy these systems across Iraq to safeguard oil facilities, critical infrastructure, and national sovereignty. The withdrawal date of September 30 is non-negotiable, reflecting Iraq's political will and demonstrating the capabilities of its security forces.

Al Numan noted that the withdrawal is accelerating, with foreign forces already departing daily. Although ISIS has been defeated in Iraq, Al Numan acknowledged the presence of remnants, but stated that security forces are actively pursuing them. The focus on air defense is due to repeated airspace violations by regional actors, including Iran, the US, and Israel.

Iraq has had limited air defense capabilities since 2003, relying on coalition support. Earlier this month, Iraqi Defence Ministry spokesman Maj Gen Yahya Rasool revealed that the government is developing an integrated national air defense system with long, medium, and short-range capabilities, radar, and command infrastructure.

The system's completion and operation are expected to be balanced, with continuous meetings held with reputable companies to enhance Iraq's air-defense capabilities.