First batch of US F-16 jets arrives in Iraq

Iraq received a first batch of F-16 fighter jets from the United States on Monday, Prime Minister Haider Al-Abadi's office said.

July 13, 2015

Sahoub Baghdadi





BAGHDAD — Iraq received a first batch of F-16 fighter jets from the United States on Monday, Prime Minister Haider Al-Abadi's office said.



Iraq ordered 36 of the $65 million Lockheed Martin Corp planes, but initial deliveries were delayed because of security concerns after Daesh (the so-called IS) militants overran large areas of of the country last year.



Four jets landed at the Balad air base north of Baghdad shortly after noon (0900 GMT), an officer in the Iraqi air force said.



The delivery came as Iraqi authorities announced the start of a military operation to drive Daesh from the province of Anbar, west of Baghdad. — Reuters


July 13, 2015
HIGHLIGHTS
SAUDI ARABIA
6 hours ago

Saudi Arabia extends exit deadline for visit visa holders by 30 days

SAUDI ARABIA
9 hours ago

Saudi Arabia and Syria sign energy cooperation agreement in Riyadh

Sports
10 hours ago

Saudi Games 2025 postponed to prioritize athlete readiness for major events