South Korea to supply advanced air defense systems to Iraq
Iraq is set to receive South Korean air defense technology in 2026 as part of broader military cooperation agreements
BAGHDAD, Iraq (MNTV) — The Iraqi Ministry of Defense announced on Sunday that South Korea will deliver advanced air defense systems to Iraq in 2026, reinforcing the country’s ongoing efforts to modernize its security forces.
The move forms part of broader agreements between Iraq and nations with sophisticated defense capabilities, including South Korea, aimed at enhancing national defense infrastructure.
Tahsin al-Khafaji, spokesperson for the Iraqi Defense Ministry, emphasized South Korea’s technological expertise and strong bilateral ties with Baghdad, noting the country’s capacity to provide advanced defense solutions.
The announcement follows a December 2024 meeting between Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani and officials from Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) in Baghdad, where discussions focused on strengthening Iraq’s air defense systems.
Al-Sudani reaffirmed Iraq’s commitment to leveraging KAI’s experience and technology to upgrade the nation’s defense capabilities, in line with broader security sector reform objectives.
In December, KAI signed a 136 billion won ($93.7 million) contract to supply Iraq with KUH helicopters, with deliveries scheduled through March 2029.
The KUH-1 Surion medium transport helicopter, developed in 2012 to replace aging UH-1H and 500MD models, is part of KAI’s broader portfolio that includes fighter jets, training aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles, satellites, and training systems.
Analysts note that South Korea’s provision of fighter jets, helicopters, and air defense systems signals an effort to expand its military sales and strategic cooperation with Iraq.
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