The command is currently focusing on increasing its independent operational effectiveness and multi-role capabilities, transitioning from a coalition-dependent posture to one of self-sufficiency.
IRAQI ARMY AVIATION COMMAND • Department of the Army
Army Aviation εPersonnel included in Army totals. Organization: Comprises dedicated attack, utility, and transport helicopter units primarily taskeda with border security, counter-insurgency, and support for the Counter-Terrorism Service (CTS).
Forces by Role & Equipment by Type
• HELICOPTER 155 active combat/support-capable.
Attack (Helicopters) with 2 active squadrons:
- 22 Mil Mi-35 Hind;
- 17 Mil Mi-28 Havoc.
Multi-role & Utility (Helicopters):
- 37 Bell 407;
- 20 Airbus H135;
- 4 Aerospatiale SA342 Gazelle.
Transport (Helicopters):
- 41 Mil Mi-8/171 Hip;
- 14 Bell UH-1H Iroquois;
- 2 Airbus H225M Caracal (10 additional on order).
Training (Helicopters):
- 9 Bell 206;
- 9 Bell OH-58 Kiowa;
- 7 Bell 505 (8 additional on order);
- 3 Bell 407.
• UNMANNED AERIAL SYSTEMS (UAS)
Combat & ISR (Medium):
- Mohajer 6 (Note: While primarily used by affiliated militia elements, these systems provide asymmetric air support for regional operations).
• AIR-LAUNCHED WEAPONS
- Air-to-Surface Missiles (ASM): 9K114 Shturm (RS-AT-6 Spiral); AGR-20A APKWS (Laser-guided); AR-1; Ingwe.
- Guided Bombs: FT-9 (INS/GPS-guided).
Note: By 2026, the Iraqi Army Aviation Command has significantly modernized its rotary-wing fleet, particularly with the introduction of the H225M Caracal and the Bell 505 training platforms. The command remains vital for "distributed lethality" against insurgent pockets and maintaining internal security. Despite logistics support challenges, the integration of advanced laser-guided munitions like APKWS has enhanced the precision-strike capability of the light utility fleet. The service continues to coordinate closely with the Iraqi Air Force, which operates the nation's fixed-wing assets and heavy ISR platforms.