Iraq and France are close to concluding an agreement for the purchase of 14 Rafale F4 fighters, negotiations that began in 2022 and should be formalized throughout 2026.
According to the French specialized press, the package includes ten single-seat Rafale C aircraft and four two-seat Rafale B versions, marking a significant advance in the modernization of the Iraqi Air Force.
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In addition to aircraft, the contract under discussion includes long-range air-to-air missiles, such as the MICA NG and Meteor, as well as high-precision air-to-ground weapons. The Rafale’s capabilities in employing AASM 250 and AASM 1000 guided bombs are seen as one of the decisive factors for Baghdad, as it offers greater operational flexibility and regional deterrent power.
The possible acquisition reflects Iraq’s dissatisfaction with its current F-16IQ, simplified versions of the F-16, limited in the use of modern weapons and with inferior electronic systems.
Iraqi pilots, who regularly train with French forces in Operation Chammal, have seen the Rafale’s superiority in practice, while US-imposed restrictions have kept the country’s F-16s focused primarily on ground attack missions.
Source: Militarnyi | Photo: @shadowh55543098 | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
The Rafale is approaching Baghdad: Will the “French Beauty” end the era of American dominance over the skies of Iraq?
Iraq is in the final stages of acquiring 14 advanced Rafale F4 fighters. Will Baghdad succeed in breaking the military dependency on Washington with this decision?
the details: pic.twitter.com/qojBg1zqUS
– Defense Arabia – Defense Arabia (@defensearabia) January 5, 2026
