Iraq receives second batch of South Korean T-50 fighter jets
In 2017, Baghdad stated it would receive 24 jets from Seoul as part of the 2013 Iraqi-Korean agreement.
ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) – Iraq has received the second batch of South Korean T-50 fighter jets in accordance with a contract signed between the two sides in 2013.
The Iraqi Defense Ministry said, in a brief statement, that the shipment included six aircraft. The first batch, consisting of two jets, arrived in March
The T-50 fighter jet, also known as “Golden Punishment,” is one of the most modern and highly maneuverable aircraft.
In 2017, Baghdad stated it would receive 24 jets from Seoul as part of the 2013 Iraqi-Korean agreement.
The 24 jets, including training, are valued at $1.1 billion, but Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) announced that it would also provide support for the aircraft for over 20 years, pushing the total value of the deal to as high as $2 billion.
In addition to military agreements with South Korea, Baghdad has signed deals with the US and Russia to buy tanks, armored vehicles, helicopters, fighter jets, and other heavy equipment.
Iraqi officials say they are improving their military arsenal to combat terrorists and insurgent groups in the country.
Iraqi security forces were among those who fought the Islamic State (IS) to liberate large swaths of territories which were controlled by the extremist group.
Despite a “final victory” announcement by Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi in December, IS continues to carry out random bombings, assassinations, and kidnappings in cities and towns across the country.
On Wednesday night, IS fighters launched an attack on Iraqi security forces, killing and wounding six and leaving others unaccounted for in the town of Jalawla, located in northwestern Diyala Province.