Latest news with #IraqiAirForce
Shafaq News
23-05-2025
- Politics
- Shafaq News
Iraq's air force strikes ISIS in Saladin
Shafaq News/ On Friday, the Iraqi Air Force carried out a series of airstrikes targeting Islamic State (ISIS) positions in the Baiji district of Saladin province, a security source reported to Shafaq News. The strikes destroyed several ISIS hideouts and weapons depots in the al-Maslaha area, resulting in the deaths of several senior operatives who had used the site to coordinate attacks. The operation was based on accurate intelligence and conducted in coordination with the Joint Operations Command's targeting cell. 'This strike dealt a calculated blow to ISIS elements still active in the area,' the source noted. Earlier today, Iraqi security forces also launched a search operation in Baiji after a citizen reported a suspicious object. The sweep uncovered remnants believed to be linked to ISIS, including components likely intended for use in explosive devices. Baiji, home to Iraq's largest oil refinery, was seized by ISIS in May 2014 and retaken by Iraqi forces and the Popular Mobilization Forces following more than a year of intense fighting. While ISIS was territorially defeated in 2017, its remnants continue to carry out sporadic attacks using suicide bombings, ambushes, and hit-and-run tactics, particularly in remote and rugged regions where the group maintains a limited presence. Iraq has intensified counter-ISIS operations in 2025, reportedly neutralizing over 50 militants during the first quarter. Several hideouts have also been dismantled, with caches of weapons and explosives recovered.
Shafaq News
12-05-2025
- Politics
- Shafaq News
Iraqi F-16s target ISIS sites in Kirkuk
Shafaq News/ The Iraqi Air Force carried out two precision airstrikes on Sunday, targeting ISIS hideouts in Wadi al-Shay, in Daquq district south of Kirkuk, a security source said. The operation was based on accurate intelligence, which identified locations used by ISIS cells for movement and attack planning, the source told Shafaq News. The strikes, conducted by Iraqi F-16 fighter jets, resulted in the destruction of the identified positions, with no reported casualties among security forces or civilians. 'These sites were being used as shelters and logistical bases by ISIS remnants operating in the area,' the source added.
Iraqi News
22-04-2025
- Politics
- Iraqi News
Iraq: Ur 2 drill for the first time in the Middle East
The Director of the Media Directorate at the Ministry of Defense, Major General Tahseen Al-Khafaji, confirmed on Tuesday that the international strategic drill (Ur 2), which was conducted today with the participation of five countries, is the first of its kind in the Middle East. "The Air Force is experiencing a qualitative leap in capabilities, reflecting Iraq's development in absorbing military technology, thanks to the direct support of Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Muhammed S. Al-Sudani," said Al-Khafaji in a statement to Al-Iraqiya News TV channel - followed by the Iraqi News Agency - INA. "Iraqi Air Force aircraft participated in complex drills in the (Ur 2) to formulate joint work with advanced institutions and support ground forces towards a specific target, with very precise timing and very accurate execution," he noted, adding, "The execution of airstrike directives today is taking place in seconds and minutes, demonstrating a qualitative leap in the development, training, and performance of the Air Force, reflecting Iraq's progress in absorbing technology." He explained that "the Ur 2 drill is unique and was held with the participation of five countries: the Iraqi, American, Italian, French, and Jordanian air forces. This is the first time this type of drill has taken place in the Middle East." "The Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Al-Sudani, supports the security forces, particularly the Iraqi Army and the Air Force, which is Iraq's long-standing weapon and arm in protecting the security and safety of Iraq's skies," Al-Khafaji explained, noting that "the financial allocations and great interest of the Commander-in-Chief in developing the Iraqi Air Force have had a positive impact, as demonstrated by today's exercise." Al-Khafajiv pointed out, "With the support provided by the Commander-in-Chief and the Minister of Defense, we have the financial and human capabilities to accommodate the technology, business, and significant developments in the aviation industry," adding, that "this has been proven after Iraq received the most complex weapons, including the Air Force." He highlighted that "the Air Force Command now possesses several advanced aircraft, such as F-16s from the United States, T-50s from South Korea, advanced surveillance and training aircraft such as the Cessna Caravan, advanced CH5 and CH4 air surveillance aircraft from the People's Republic of China, in addition to 159L close air support aircraft from the Czech Republic." "This diversity of resources is a diversity in increasing and building capabilities. This underscores the importance of diversifying resources, as well as the ability to absorb the most complex weapons, prepare a suitable environment for pilots, and receive students to train pilots and engineers," he underscored. The Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces attended the "Ur 2" drill on Tuesday and emphasized the government's efforts to build and develop the Air Force according to modern principles.
Iraqi News
22-04-2025
- Politics
- Iraqi News
PM: Placing Iraq's supreme national interest above all else
PM Muhammed S. Al-Sudani affirmed on Tuesday, working with a vision that Placing Iraq's supreme national interest above all else, noting that Iraq possesses an air force comparable to that received by pilots in developed countries. PM and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Al-Sudani, attended the 'Ur 2' joint air exercise at Balad Air Base (Martyr Brigadier General Ali Fleihe Base), held in celebration of the 94th anniversary of the founding of the Iraqi Air Force, according to a statement by the PM's Media Office - received by the Iraqi News Agency - INA. The event was attended by the Minister of Defense, senior military leaders, and representatives from allied and partner air forces. The Prime Minister observed the live execution of the exercise, which featured flyovers by Iraqi squadrons and participating international aircraft. The exercise included a simulated target-clearing operation. He toured the Iraqi aircraft ground exhibition and witnessed a parachute drop performed by participating units. In a speech delivered on the occasion, the Commander-in-Chief extended his "congratulations to the leadership, officers, and personnel of the Iraqi Air Force on the anniversary of its establishment—April 22, 1932—when Iraq's first combat squadron took flight under the command of five pioneering Iraqi pilots," emphasizing that the Iraqi Air Force remains a foundational pillar of national sovereignty and a key component of the country's military strength—positioning Iraq's armed forces among the most capable in the region in terms of doctrine, professionalism, and advanced capabilities." Al-Sudani highlighted "the significance of the international strategic air exercise 'Ur 2,' conducted in cooperation with the air forces of the United States, Italy, France, and Jordan, and with the participation of Iraq's Special Forces Command," noting that "this exercise reflects Iraq's growing defense partnerships, which the government has worked to strengthen through multiple agreements with allied and friendly nations." He paid tribute to "the Iraqi Air Force for its courageous role in defending the country in the post-dictatorship era and its decisive contributions to the fight against terrorism," praising "the bravery and sacrifices of Iraqi airmen in the liberation battles against Daesh and their continued efforts in pursuing terrorist remnants across Iraq's remote regions." The statement highlighted remarks made by PM Al-Sudani, saying: "Today we commemorate the founding of the Iraqi Air Force—an institution whose history is deeply intertwined with that of the modern Iraqi state. The Air Force, like other branches of our military, was weakened by reckless wars under the former dictatorship, losing many of its most skilled and honorable officers. Brave and patriotic Air Force commanders who stood against tyranny were subjected to execution, persecution, and exclusion. Our government has made the development of all branches of the armed forces a top priority—focusing on rebuilding the air force. We are committed to rebuilding the Iraqi Air Force on modern scientific foundations, aligned with global standards and the best practices of advanced air forces. Strengthening military capabilities is a strategic imperative, and we are pursuing diversified sources for arming our air force." "Today, Iraqi pilots fly some of the most advanced aircraft in the world and receive training at leading international military academies. Sustained support has led to the emergence of a capable, professional, and nationally proud air force entrusted with vital defense missions. Iraq continues to foster constructive cooperation and operational coordination with regional partners in the fight against terrorism. We act with a clear vision—placing Iraq's supreme national interest above all else, avoiding emotional or reactionary decisions. We have pledged to remain firmly committed to the principle of Iraq first—regardless of the cost or the sacrifices it may demand," he included in the statement.
Shafaq News
10-02-2025
- Politics
- Shafaq News
Iraqi forces sweep Kirkuk's "Valley of Death" to recover ISIS remains
Shafaq News / On Monday, a security source in Kirkuk reported that a large-scale security operation has been initiated in the southern part of the province to recover the bodies of ISIS militants. The operation follows an airstrike conducted by the Iraqi Air Force on Sunday using F-16 jets, which targeted ISIS positions in the area. According to the source, a joint force from the Iraqi Army began the operation in the Zghaitoun Valley, located between the Rashad sub-district and Daquq district, approximately 45 km south of Kirkuk. The operation, which continues with aerial support from army aviation, aims to secure and recover the remains of the militants. Details regarding the operation and the airstrikes carried out last evening are expected to be announced later. The source further noted that F-16 jets executed two separate airstrikes on an ISIS hideout, resulting in the deaths of the militants inside. Earlier on Sunday, the Security Media Cell reported that the strike was based on precise intelligence and coordinated efforts by the Military Intelligence Directorate in collaboration with the targeting cell of the Joint Operations Command. Despite being militarily defeated, ISIS continues to pose a security threat in the region, relying on guerrilla tactics such as ambushes, bombings, and abductions. The Zghaitoun Valley is known for its rugged terrain and its longstanding reputation as a refuge for militant groups. Nicknamed the "Valley of Death," the area has historically served as a stronghold for groups that eventually evolved into ISIS. Its challenging geography, characterized by dense vegetation, seasonal water bodies during winter, and mountainous terrain linking to the Hamrin range, has made it an ideal location for militants to evade detection. Iraqi forces have frequently deployed F-16 fighter jets to target militant hideouts in the valley.
