Following joint U.S.-Saudi airstrikes against Iran-backed militias in Iraq, the Iraqi government declared its top priority is modernizing national air defenses, according to statements reported by Baghdad officials. The military action, which U.S. Central Command stated targeted logistics and weapons sites in eastern Iraq in response to over 30 aerial drone attacks, left Iraqi leadership scrambling to address persistent vulnerabilities in the country’s airspace.
Iraqi Airspace Vulnerabilities and Joint Airstrikes
U.S. and Saudi fighter aircraft struck multiple sites across eastern Iraq, resulting in 20 deaths and 32 injuries among the Popular Mobilization Forces, according to the state-sanctioned paramilitary organization. Government spokesperson Haider al-Aboudi stated that Baghdad had no prior knowledge of the attacks and did not grant approval for strikes on Iraqi territory. Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi subsequently canceled a planned trip to Saudi Arabia and ordered maximum military alertness. According to spokesperson Sabah al-Numan, accelerating plans to acquire radar and air defense systems is now a “top priority” for the administration.
Did you know? Iraq previously faced similar declarations over six years ago following American and Iranian strikes on sovereign soil.
Procurement Hurdles for the Cheongung-II System
Despite recent declarations, Iraq faces severe financial roadblocks in upgrading its military capabilities. Baghdad previously placed an order for the medium-range Cheongung-II, also known as the KM-SAM, air defense missile system from South Korea as part of a $2.78 billion deal. However, air defense commander Muhannad Ghalib al-Asadi told lawmakers that the delivery has been delayed because Baghdad has not paid its second installment. According to Iraqi MP Faleh Al-Khazali, Iraq paid an initial $500 million installment but delayed subsequent payments that were due last year, prompting warnings from South Korea that the system could be sold elsewhere.
Historical Precedents in Air Defense Acquisitions
Financial constraints and geopolitical friction have long hampered Iraq’s military procurement. In the late 2010s, Baghdad explored acquiring long-range Russian S-300 or S-400 strategic air defense systems but suspended talks due to the risk of American sanctions under the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act. Following a January 2020 U.S. drone strike that killed Qasem Soleimani, head of Iran’s IRGC’s extraterritorial Quds Force, and Kataib Hezbollah commander Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis near Baghdad International Airport, Iraqi officials briefly renewed negotiations for Russian systems. Ambassadors and parliamentary committee members argued at the time that the acquisitions were necessary to deter foreign strikes, though no formal contracts materialized.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Iraq modernizing its air defenses?
The Iraqi government prioritized air defense modernization following joint U.S.-Saudi airstrikes against Iran-backed militias on Iraqi territory, which exposed ongoing vulnerabilities in national airspace security.
What delayed the delivery of the Cheongung-II missile system?
According to Iraqi defense officials and lawmakers, delivery of the South Korean Cheongung-II system has been delayed because Baghdad has failed to pay its second financial installment.
Did Iraq ever acquire Russian S-300 or S-400 systems?
No. While Iraqi officials discussed purchasing Russian systems following high-profile regional escalations, no formal contracts were finalized due to financial hurdles and potential sanctions.
Stay Informed on Global Defense Updates
Explore more analysis on regional security developments, military procurement, and geopolitical shifts by subscribing to our newsletter.