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The U.S. State Department has approved a possible $800 million sale of Bell helicopters and associated equipment to Iraq, a package aimed at strengthening the country’s transport, reconnaissance and air-to-surface targeting capabilities. The notification triggers a review by Congress and does not constitute a finalized contract.
The proposed Foreign Military Sale covers Bell 412EPX and Bell 407M helicopters, along with GAU-19 three‑barrel machine gun launchers; M260 seven‑tube, 2.75‑inch rocket launchers; L3Harris Wescam MX‑15HDI electro‑optical/infrared sensors; AN/AAR‑60 Block 2 missile launch detection systems; very high frequency radios; spare parts; specialized ground support gear; technical publications and data. It also includes new‑equipment training for pilots and maintainers and U.S. government and contractor engineering, technical and logistics support.
The State Department said the package would support U.S. foreign policy and national security by boosting the capabilities of a strategic partner. For Iraq, the aircraft and mission systems are intended to enhance rotary‑wing lift, armed reconnaissance and precision engagement against current and future threats.
Bell Textron of Fort Worth, Texas, is the principal contractor. No offset agreements were disclosed, and the number of aircraft has not been specified.
Under the Foreign Military Sales process, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency typically transmits the proposed deal to Congress for a period of review during which lawmakers can raise objections. If approved, the scope and dollar value of a final contract can change during negotiations.
Iraq relies heavily on helicopters for mobility, surveillance and strike missions across difficult terrain and for border security and counterinsurgency operations. The new package would refresh and expand those capabilities with modern airframes, sensors and defensive systems.
