The U.S. State Department has approved a potential $800 million deal to sell Iraq military helicopters manufactured by Bell Helicopter, along with a range of related systems and equipment.
According to a State Department statement, the proposed deal includes Bell 412EPX and Bell 407M helicopters, in addition to supporting equipment and systems. The estimated value of the contract is approximately $800 million.
Helicopters and Military Equipment for Iraq
Iraqi authorities have requested the helicopters along with machine-gun mounting platforms and equipment for launching unguided rockets, as well as various systems designed for navigation and communications, according to the statement.
If the deal is finalized, U.S.-based Bell Textron, headquartered in Texas, would be responsible for fulfilling the contract and providing the associated equipment and services.
Deal Sent to Congress for Review
The U.S. State Department said the administration has formally notified Congress of its approval of the potential sale, in accordance with procedures governing Foreign Military Sales.
Congress has up to 30 days to review the proposed deal and take action, including potentially blocking the sale.
The proposed agreement comes as part of ongoing U.S.-Iraq defense cooperation, with the helicopters and associated equipment intended to strengthen Iraqi forces’ capabilities in areas including transport, aerial support, and security operations.
