Iraq has made a significant move to bolster its military capabilities, agreeing to purchase 14 military helicopters from European aviation giant Airbus. The deal, signed in Baghdad on Thursday, includes a dozen H225M multi-role combat aircraft, marking a substantial investment in Iraqi defense.
The signing ceremony was attended by Iraq’s Defense Minister Thabet al-Abbassi, alongside the French ambassador to Iraq, Patrick Durel, and a representative of Airbus Helicopters. Arnaud Montalvo, head of Airbus Helicopters for the Middle East, confirmed the agreement for the delivery of 12 H225M helicopters, starting in early 2025. While the value of the deal was not disclosed, the French embassy in Baghdad clarified that the total number of helicopters included in the agreement was 14.
This significant agreement, according to Durel, is a direct result of “exchanges and discussions” between French President Emmanuel Macron and Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani. The aim is to fortify Iraq’s defenses and strengthen its sovereignty. “We can only be pleased that today we have achieved this result, which will allow Iraq to strengthen its capacities and which will allow Iraq to strengthen its sovereignty,” Durel stated.
The purchase comes as a result of growing bilateral defense ties between Baghdad and Paris. “Our forces have fought together against terrorism, against IS,” Durel emphasized, referring to the Islamic State group. France has been actively involved in Iraq, deploying troops as part of the US-led international coalition fighting IS and announcing plans to train Iraqi units last year.
While Iraq declared victory over IS in late 2017, the threat of jihadist cells remains active, with sporadic attacks, particularly in rural areas. Baghdad’s current strategy seeks to replace the coalition mission with bilateral military partnerships, demonstrating its confidence in leading the fight against the weakened IS group.
The acquisition of these helicopters aligns with Iraq’s strategic vision. In a January 2023 trip to Paris, Sudani engaged in talks with representatives of various French defense manufacturers, including Airbus, regarding potential acquisitions of helicopters, radars, and even the Dassault Rafale fighter jet. Montalvo highlighted the urgency of the helicopter delivery, emphasizing the pressing operational need.
This agreement marks a significant step forward in Iraq’s efforts to secure its future, strengthening its military capabilities and demonstrating its commitment to combating terrorism and safeguarding its sovereignty.
