The U.S. State Department has cleared a possible $800 million arms sale to Iraq, covering Bell 412EPX and Bell 407M helicopters, according to a Defense Security Cooperation Agency notification. The sale still requires final contract negotiations before it takes effect.
What’s Included
Iraq’s request extends beyond the aircraft themselves. It covers GAU-19 three-barrel machine gun launchers, M260 rocket pods, and L-3 Wescam MX-15HDI electro-optical and infrared sensors. The package also includes AN/AAR-60 Block 2 missile launch detection systems and secure VHF radios. Spare parts, ground support equipment, technical publications, and new-equipment training round out the deal. Washington and contractor personnel would provide engineering, technical, and logistics support throughout.
Strategic Rationale
The State Department frames the sale as a move to bolster a key regional partner’s security. Officials say it would sharpen Iraq’s rotary-wing transport, reconnaissance, and air-to-surface targeting capabilities, addressing both current and emerging threats. Iraq has leaned heavily on U.S.-made rotary aircraft since rebuilding its military after the campaign against ISIS, and continues to face security challenges from residual militant networks and regional instability.
Industry and Program Details
Bell-Textron, headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, will serve as prime contractor. The company has supplied Iraq’s air fleet for years, making this sale a continuation of an established procurement relationship rather than a new entry into the market.
Congress must still review the proposed sale before it can proceed, a standard step in the Foreign Military Sales process. No timeline for finalizing contracts has been announced.
According to the Defense Security Cooperation Agency.
Find out more on the US Department of State Website: https://www.state.gov/releases/bureau-of-political-military-affairs/2026/08/iraq-bell-412-and-bell-407m-helicopters
