Iraq To Get F16 Fighter Jets In 2014 By US

US officials announced on Tuesday that Iraq will receive its first F-16 fighter jets in 2014. In a multi-billion dollar deal, the US had agreed to sell 36 F-16 and also provide arms sales and training to Baghdad that would increase the capabilities of fledgling Iraq’s air force. Iraq had also expressed interest in buying radar and air defense systems, from US. Though Iraq’s security forces are regarded to maintain internal security, Iraqi and American officials acknowledge they cannot protect Iraq’s airspace, borders or territorial waters. Until last year, when U.S. forces withdrew from Iraq, American troops had helped Baghdad carry out those tasks.