Good News: Iraq Receives 15 New Helicopters from the U.S.
Date: October 17, 2025
Source: Iraqi Ministry of Defense & state media
The government of Iraq announced it has received all 15 of the Bell 505 helicopters it contracted from the United States. (The New Region)
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These have arrived in two batches: seven helicopters in 2024, and the remaining eight in 2025.
In addition, Iraq expects six more advanced helicopters, one of which is the French-made Caracal, before the end of the year.
Why it matters
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The helicopters will go to the country’s Army Aviation Command and specifically to the Army Aviation College. Their goal: modernize training for pilots.
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The Ministry says these aircraft are “highly capable” and will help in operations such as air support and fire-support missions. (The New Region)
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The acquisition signals that Iraq is aiming to boost its defense capabilities and train its personnel for modern warfare situations. (The New Region)
What the officials said
Major General Tahseen al‑Khafaji, Director of the Ministry’s Media and Public Relations Department, said this delivery is a “major step forward in training, development, and preparedness.” (The New Region) He emphasized that Iraq is now better positioned to “seek more advanced aircraft in the near future.”
Bottom line
Iraq is upgrading its military aviation sector by bringing in new helicopters from the U.S., using them to train more capable pilots, and preparing to move onto even more advanced aircraft in the future.
