Iraqi PM attends Iraqi Air Force first exercise, encourages military cooperation

Baghdad (IraqiNews.com) – The Iraqi Prime Minister, Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, during his speech at the Iraqi Air Force exercise, confirmed that Exercise Ababil reflects the readiness of Iraqi fighter pilots, the Iraqi News Agency (INA) reported.

Al-Sudani, during the military exercise taking place in the Balad Air Base located 40 miles north of Baghdad, pointed out that his government program prioritizes raising the capabilities of the Iraqi army to the highest levels.

The Iraqi Prime Minister stated that the remarkable performance of Iraqi fighter pilots and Air Force crews that followed hard work, perseverance, training, and persistence aims to protect the Iraqi airspace and borders.

Al-Sudani said that this Air Force exercise encouraged friends in the French Air Force to take part in the exercise with Rafale aircraft.

“We encourage partners to participate in constructive military cooperation to improve security, deliver a message of reassurance in Iraq’s capabilities and stability, and to enhance regional security,” the Iraqi Prime Minister added.

The Prime Minister’s statements coincided with a statement issued by the spokesperson of the Commander-in-Chief of the Iraqi Armed Forces, Yahya Rasoul, explaining that military exercises are taking place where Iraqi F-16 fighter jets and Rafale fighter jets will participate to experience the capabilities of both aircraft.

The Iraqi official also confirmed that the Iraqi Air Force is seeking to include Rafale fighter jets in the Iraqi fleet.

Rasoul elaborated that the Iraqi Air Force is looking forward to developing its fleet to include modern multi-purpose aircraft such as the Rafale, which is one of the advanced aircraft that have high capabilities.

The Iraqi official highlighted the importance of training and exercises conducted by the Iraqi Air Force with many countries, including NATO countries and France, to increase its expertise.