Brig. Gen. Tahseen Ibrahim Al-Khafaji, Iraqi Ministry of Defense, Director of Media and Morale
IRAQi MINISTRY OF DEFENSE, director of media and morale
Fighter jets are considered the backbone of the Armed Forces and vital equipment to score victories. So the recent acquisition of four F-16s provides Iraq with the advanced technology to increase our fighting capability. Few brands have such resonance and provide such an example of superb performance and precision. The F-16 is a fourth-generation multipurpose fighter jet with advanced technology and firepower not found in other fighters.
Despite the advanced systems of the F-16, it can’t be an effective weapon without skilled pilots who undergo advanced training and maintain physical fitness. Not only pilots, but engineers and technicians must be capable and trained. This is the case with Iraqi pilots, engineers and technicians who specialize in the F-16.
Obtaining F-16 fighter jets makes Iraq more capable of protecting its territory through the fighter’s precise targeting of enemy positions. The Iraqi-U.S. deal that provided our country with this strategic weapon shows the level of trust and confidence between our nations and their commitment to joint security. The deal strengthens the strategic relationship between both nations.
Furthermore, this strategic weapon will improve Iraq’s standing in the world. It will make Iraq’s enemies think twice before attempting to violate national sovereignty. We are aiming to build a professional Air Force. Our military was nurtured on the love of this nation and rejects ethno-sectarian divisions. We will use these weapons for the right causes without being a tool for sectarianism or political struggles.
The arrival of the F-16s in Iraq at this time clearly and undoubtedly means that the United States is committed to the security and strategic agreement that supports the Iraqi people in their war against terrorism and supports a democratic and unified Iraq that respects the constitution.
We as Iraqi pilots feel proud that our nation owns this powerful fighter jet that any pilot in the world dreams to fly.
Finally, I want to commend the efforts that went above and beyond to make this national dream come true. I give thanks to each pilot, engineer and technician who lived abroad, away from his country and loved ones for many years, and went through tough training and stressful tests to prepare for this historic moment. Thank God for this blessing and allowing this project to became a total success. We will show the world that Iraq has a deep-rooted history, ancient civilization and unified people. God willing, we will rebuild our nation with our hands.