Iraq’s Air Force Modernisation Drive

Rafale jets, Texan II trainers, and JF-17 fighters reshape Baghdad’s defence posture

Iraq is modernising its air force with Rafale jets, Texan II trainers, and JF-17 fighters, diversifying suppliers and financing through oil, as part of a $27.3bn defence strategy to counter ISIS and regional instability.

1. Iraq’s Procurement Strategy

• Iraq is investing $27.3 billion in defence through 2028, with air power as the priority.

• The Rafale contract with Dassault Aviation replaces ageing F-16IQs, addressing maintenance challenges and enhancing combat readiness.

• Financing through oil supplies instead of cash reflects Iraq’s unique approach to balancing economic constraints with strategic needs.

2. Diversified Partnerships

• Iraq’s acquisitions span France (Rafale), Pakistan (Texan II), and China (JF-17 Block 3), showcasing a multi-vector procurement strategy.

• This diversification reduces dependency on a single supplier and strengthens Iraq’s leverage in international diplomacy.

• Diplomatic outreach to the U.S. and South Korea further embeds Iraq in global defence networks, facilitating access to advanced technologies.

3. Regional Security Context

• Modernisation comes amid ISIS resurgence and persistent instability in the Middle East.

• Enhanced air capabilities provide Iraq with greater operational effectiveness in counter-terrorism missions and border security.

• Rafale jets, with advanced avionics and strike capabilities, position Iraq to deter regional threats and project power more credibly.

4. Strategic Implications

• Iraq’s procurement reflects a shift from legacy fleets to modern multirole platforms, aligning with global trends in air force reform.

• The inclusion of Texan II trainers strengthens pilot training pipelines, while JF-17 fighters expand tactical flexibility.

• Together, these acquisitions signal Iraq’s determination to rebuild its air force as a credible regional actor.

5. Challenges and Opportunities

• Foreign investors face hurdles: corruption, customs regulations, and high taxes.

• Yet, sectors such as fixed-wing aircraft, missile defence, and electronic warfare offer lucrative opportunities.

• Iraq’s defence modernisation is both a security imperative and an economic opportunity for international partners.

Conclusion

Iraq’s air force modernisation is more than a procurement programme—it is a strategic recalibration of national defence. By diversifying suppliers, leveraging oil-based financing, and embedding itself in global partnerships, Baghdad is positioning itself as a resilient and adaptive actor in a volatile region. The success of this initiative will depend on Iraq’s ability to integrate new platforms, sustain training, and overcome systemic governance challenges.

Source: Airforce Technology & ©XAirForces News, 30 December 2025

Photo: Pakistan Air Force JF-17 (09-112) Solo Air Show in 06 04 2011. (Photo by Osman Tüfekçi ©XAirForces)

Editor: Yasemin Edigel (©XAirForces News Editor from Jordan and Türkiye)

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Strategic Analysis: Iraq’s Air Force Modernisation Drive