Iraq Seeks $2bn in US Military Equipment

By John Lee.

The government of Iraq wants to purchase nearly $2-billion worth military equipment from the United States.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) notified the US Congress of the following intended deals:

• 50 M1135 Stryker Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical Reconnaissance Vehicles (pictured) and associated equipment, parts, training and logistical support for an estimated cost of $900 million;
• 12 Bell 412 EP helicopters and associated equipment, parts, training and logistical support for an estimated cost of $300 million;
• Multi-Platform Maintenance and associated equipment, parts, training and logistical support for an estimated cost of $750 million.

According to the DSCA, the proposed sales will "contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to improve the security of a strategic partner. [They] directly support the Iraqi government and serve the interests of the Iraqi people and the United States."

Congress has 30 days to raise any objections to the plan.

(Source: )