An initial tranche of $57.8 million was released at the time of signing, with all funds originating from Iraq. Vectrus will carry out the support services at Martyr BG Ali Flaih Air Base in Iraq, with operations scheduled to continue until the end of November 2026.
Iraq’s Air Force, which operates 34 Lockheed Martin F-16C/D Fighting Falcons, has long relied on U.S. contractors for maintenance and logistical assistance. This dependence became evident in 2020, when the withdrawal of American personnel due to strained Baghdad–Washington relations led to a decline in the fleet’s operational readiness.
According to Iraqi media reports, the number of mission-ready F-16s fell from around 20 in the first quarter of 2020 to approximately five later that year. The return of U.S. specialists to Balad Air Base in September 2020 significantly improved aircraft availability and operational activity.
Iraq originally ordered 36 F-16C/D Block 52+ aircraft via two FMS contracts, with deliveries completed between 2014 and 2017. Two jets were lost in training accidents in the United States, where Iraqi pilots were undergoing instruction.
Based on political declarations made in 2010, Iraq had initially expressed interest in acquiring up to 96 F-16 aircraft. While no new orders have yet been confirmed, the possibility of further purchases from the United States remains open.
