United States approves $800 million helicopter sale to Iraq

The United States Department of State has approved a potential $800 million foreign military sale to Iraq. The proposed package is designed to enhance Baghdad’s capabilities in troop transport, reconnaissance, and air-to-surface strikes to address regional instability.

The deal includes Bell 412EPX and Bell 407M helicopters, with Bell Textron expected to serve as the primary contractor. To support these aircraft, the sale includes L-3 Wescam MX-15HDI electro-optical and infrared sensors, GAU-19 machine gun launchers, and M260 rocket launchers.

Additional components of the package consist of AN/AAR-60 Block 2 missile launch detection systems, high-frequency radios, spare parts, training, and logistical support. The authorization aims to bolster Iraq’s ability to locate and designate targets while strengthening its overall security forces.