Iraq confirms plan to buy US fighter jets

[tigershark]

Iraq confirms plan to buy US fighter jets
BAGHDAD, Sept 10, 2008 (AFP) - Iraqi Defence Minister Abdel Qader Jassim Mohmmed confirmed on Wednesday that Baghdad planned to purchase F-16 fighter jets from the United States.

"This plane is to improve the future ability of the Iraqi army to protect the entire country, including Kurdistan, from any foreign aggression," Mohammed told reporters in Baghdad's Green Zone.

On Friday, the Wall Street Journal reported that Baghdad wanted to buy 36 advanced F-16 fighters from the United States.

Mohammed did not specify how many jets the government would purchase.

Such a deal would be expected to reduce Baghdad's reliance on US air power and possibly clear the way for the withdrawal of more US troops.

US officials have previously maintained that the United States would have to keep fighter aircraft and helicopters in Iraq even after American combat troops leave.

But even if the deal were approved, countries in the region would likely be concerned with Baghdad's fledgling government having control of such sophisticated arms, the Wall Street Journal added.

The news comes as Iraqi and US officials are negotiating a sensitive security agreement governing the eventual withdrawal of US forces.

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Source
http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidANA438254150313/Iraq%20confirms%20plan%20to%20buy%20US%20fighter%20jets