Iraqi Prime Minister and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, announced today that the government has allocated 5 trillion dinars (about $3.826 billion) to enhance the military’s capabilities and weaponry.
This budget includes 3 trillion dinars ($2.295 billion) specifically earmarked in this year’s budget to modernize and strengthen the armaments of various branches of the armed forces, according to the German Press Agency.
During the inauguration ceremony of the new Air Defense Command Operations Center, Al-Sudani praised the efforts of the commanders and officers who played a pivotal role in completing and operating the center.
The center was established in collaboration with the French defense equipment company, Thales, as part of Iraq’s strategic plans to upgrade its military arsenal, as stated in a government press release.
Al-Sudani emphasized the aim to safeguard Iraq’s security and sovereignty over its land, air, and waters. This is a central objective within the government’s defense program, especially in the post-international coalition phase.
He also highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to pursue all forms of terrorist threats or breaches, build capabilities for detection and early warning, particularly in low-detection areas, and improve air defense techniques to match advancements in neighboring and regional countries.
This includes the development and deployment of specialized aircraft to counter all potential intrusions or attacks.
According to the statement, the Commander-in-Chief received a detailed briefing from the Air Defense Commander about equipping the new center with an advanced radar detection system. This effort is part of the Air Defense Command’s initiative to enhance infrastructure for monitoring and securing Iraqi airspace.
The government remains committed to supporting and strengthening the command’s ability to control and protect Iraqi skies from violations, thereby improving immediate response capabilities.
