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Iraqi Air Defence Command
Military unit From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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The Iraqi Air Defense Command (Arabic: قُوَّات الدِفَاع الجَوِّي العِرَاقِيَّة) is the aerial defense branch of the Iraqi Armed Forces. It is one of the key service components under the authority of the Iraqi Ministry of Defense, responsible for the protection of Iraq’s airspace and critical infrastructure from aerial threats.[2]
Headquartered in Baghdad, the Iraqi Air Defense Forces oversee a network of radar sites, surface-to-air missile (SAM) systems, and anti-aircraft artillery units across the country. In recent years, Iraq has undertaken efforts to modernize its air defense capabilities, integrating legacy Soviet-era systems with newer platforms acquired through international partnerships.[3]
Historically, the Iraqi Air Defense Command played a significant role during conflicts such as the Iran–Iraq War, the Gulf War, and the 2003 Iraq War. In the post-2003 period, the command has been in a process of rebuilding and restructuring, with a current estimated strength of approximately 24,000 personnel as of 2025.[4]
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Modernization and Structure
In recent years, Iraq has focused on enhancing its air defense through international collaborations and acquisitions:
- Radar Systems: In 2022, Iraq inaugurated its first Thales Ground Master 403 (GM403) long-range radar system, marking a significant step in airspace surveillance. The GM403 radar provides 3D air surveillance capabilities with a range of up to 470 km. Plans include integrating these radars with existing systems like the U.S.-made AN/TPS-77 to establish a comprehensive air surveillance network.
- Command and Control: A new Air Defense Command Operations Center is under construction to coordinate the nation’s air defense assets effectively. This center aims to integrate various radar and missile systems, enhancing real-time threat assessment and response.
- Personnel Training: Collaborations with international partners include training programs to develop Iraqi expertise in operating and maintaining advanced air defense systems, ensuring long-term self-sufficiency.[5]
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Status in 2025
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As of 2025, the Iraqi Air Defense Command (IADC) has undergone significant restructuring and modernization efforts to enhance its capabilities in safeguarding the nation’s airspace. The IADC now operates under a centralized command structure, integrating various air defense systems and radar installations across the country.
The IADC’s organizational structure comprises multiple specialized units, including:
- Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM) Battalions:
- One battalion equipped with Russian Pantsir-S1 systems, providing short to medium-range air defense capabilities.
- Another battalion operating American AN/TWQ-1 Avenger systems, offering mobile short-range air defense.
- A third battalion utilizing upgraded Soviet Igla-S systems for man-portable air defense.
- Radar and Surveillance Units:
- Deployment of Thales Ground Master 403 (GM403) long-range 3D radars, enhancing early warning and airspace monitoring capabilities.
In addition to existing systems, Iraq has entered into agreements to acquire advanced air defense technologies:
- Cheongung II (KM-SAM) Systems:
- In September 2024, Iraq signed a $2.8 billion deal with South Korea’s LIG Nex1 to procure eight batteries of the Cheongung II medium-range surface-to-air missile systems, aiming to bolster its air defense coverage.
The IADC’s modernization efforts reflect Iraq’s commitment to enhancing its air defense capabilities amid evolving regional security challenges.
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References
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