Iraq Expects Russian Weapons Delivery Next Month

The second consignment of Russian weapons and military equipment, to be delivered to Iraq under the deal signed in 2012, will arrive later than previously announced, a senior Iraqi lawmaker said on Sunday.

Last year, Iraq signed a $4.3 billion deal with Moscow to buy Russian weapons and military equipment, including around 40 Mi-35 and Mi-28NE attack helicopters. Iraq took collection of the first four Mi-35 helicopter gunships this fall.

Iraqi officials said in November that the second shipment is expected by the end of the year.
“The second batch of Russian weapons will arrive in Iraq in January,” said Muhammed al-Aqili, a deputy head of the ruling faction in the Iraqi parliament.

He did not specify what types of arms and equipment were due to arrive. The reason for the delay is unknown. Iraq is looking to use the newly bought military materiel to bolster its borders and for use in antiterrorist operations.

The 2012 contract also envisages the purchase of 48 Pantsir-S1 anti-aircraft missile gun systems and Ka-52 single-seat attack helicopters. [via]