Iraq wants to purchase 24 AT-6C light attack aircraft under a potential $790 million foreign military sales deal approved by the State Department, the Pentagon told Congress this week. “The proposed sale of these aircraft, equipment, and support will enhance the ability of the Iraqi forces to sustain themselves in their efforts to bring stability to Iraq and to prevent overflow of unrest into neighboring countries,” states a May 13 Defense Security Cooperation Agency release. The FMS package would also include aircraft self-defensive equipment, such as missile warning and countermeasures, as well as spares, maintenance, logistics, and training, according to DSCA. The Air Force conducted extensive AT-6 weapons integration testing, but chose its rival AT-29 Super Tucano to equip the Afghan Air Force, following a protracted legal battle. The Iraqi Air Force currently operates the T-6 Texan II and will become the attack variant’s first launch customer if the deal is finalized.
While the Space Force is still making long-term plans to establish high-fidelity live and virtual test and training ranges in the coming years, officials say they're also working with operators to identify near-term gaps and quickly field capabilities to address them.
