Iraq and France are close to finalizing an agreement to purchase 14 Rafale F4 fighter jets, negotiations that began in 2022 and are expected to be formalized during 2026.
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According to French specialized press, the package includes ten single-seat Rafale C aircraft and four two-seat Rafale B versions, which marks a significant step forward in the modernization of the Iraqi air force.
In addition to the aircraft, the contract in question 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 ability to use guided bombs of the AASM 250 and AASM 1000 types is pointed out as one of the decisive factors for Baghdad, by offering greater operational flexibility and regional deterrence.
The possible acquisition reflects Iraq’s dissatisfaction with its current F-16IQ, simplified versions of the F-16, which are limited in the use of modern weapons and have less advanced electronic systems.
Iraqi pilots, who regularly train alongside French forces under Operation Chammal, have observed the Rafale’s superiority in practice, while US-imposed restrictions have kept the country’s F-16s mainly focused on ground attack missions.
Source: Militarnyi | Photo: @shadowh55543098 | This content was created with the help of KI and reviewed by the editors
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) 5 January 2026
