Iraq Receives 6 French Caracal Helicopters

Iraq has taken delivery of six French-made Caracal helicopters as part of a broader military modernization drive, the Iraqi Ministry of Defense announced on Saturday, with further air defense systems expected early next year.

Major General Tahseen Al-Khafaji, Director of Media and Moral Guidance at the Ministry of Defense, said the latest delivery completes the arrival of six advanced H225M Caracal helicopters, describing them as a significant boost to the operational capabilities of Iraq’s security forces across multiple missions.

He added that Iraq is also strengthening its air defense capacity through cooperation with South Korea, with medium-range air defense batteries scheduled to arrive at the beginning of next year. The systems are expected to provide a major upgrade to Iraq’s national air defense network.

The helicopters were purchased under a contract signed in 2024 between the Iraqi Ministry of Defense and Airbus, as part of a strategy to modernize the army aviation fleet and diversify arms procurement between Eastern and Western suppliers.

The H225M Caracal is a multi-role military helicopter designed for tactical transport, close support, search and rescue, and special forces operations. 

Defense officials say the aircraft will significantly enhance Iraq’s ability to support ground forces and conduct maneuvers across a wide range of operational environments.