Azzaman: There have been statements about the US being late in supplying Iraq with weapons.
Bednarek: On the contrary, we are ahead of schedule for emergency requests. However, there are long-term programs that are linked to Iraq’s independence. This is not to mention the logistic support, which could affect the receipt of shipments, especially when it comes to the US Apache fighters. We assess the strategic position of the Iraqi forces and we offer assistance through emergency military grants and not through contracting. This reflects the clear commitment of the US government toward the safety and security of Iraq.
Azzaman: What is the covert reason behind the delay of the arrival of the Apache helicopters shipment?
Bednarek: Everybody knows that the Apache plane is a combat aircraft that has the best aerial combat capacities in the world so far. A year and half ago, Iraq signed a contract to buy 24 Apache helicopters. However, the Iraqi troops were in dire need of the helicopters before they were due to be delivered as per the contract. We ought not to forget that there are several demands on these helicopters from around the world, which could delay the delivery timetable. Given this long period of time and Iraq’s urgent need for these aircraft to fight terrorism, we decided to lease the jets instead of selling them for the time being. We finalized the shipment order with the US Congress. The Iraqi government and the Army Aviation are currently looking over the details of the project that includes a six-month training to fly the jets, and requires an eligible air base. These projects have been put on hold for many reasons, namely the jets’ needs for spare parts stores, which must be provided by the Iraqi government.
Azzaman: Are there any challenges as to the arms shipments with the Iraqi side?
Bednarek: There are no significant challenges, but these shipments require greater facilities on the part of the Iraqi side. Iraq is working on overcoming these obstacles in the coming period, especially since we need to train the human resources to obtain the necessary licenses. This is not to mention the need to develop payment mechanisms for contracts related to weapons and to agree on amounts that will be wired by the Iraqi government through the Central Bank of Iraq to the US Federal Reserve Bank. All this will take place in September 2014, when we receive the first batch of the Apache and F-16 aircraft.
Azzaman: Are there any challenges with concluding air weapon contracts?
Bednarek: There are no major challenges. However, we are working with the Iraqi Ministry of Defense on the rehabilitation of the Balad Air Base, as it was subject to several attacks after 2011 and needs maintenance and reparation of the runways and jet warehouses. The outer perimeter and the fence need to be fixed as well. The Iraqi air force is working on overcoming all these challenges.
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