Seoul: Deputy Commander of the Air Force, Major General Pilot Khaled Mirdas, has unveiled a new strategic direction for Iraq’s military engagements at international arms shows, emphasizing the enhancement and development of existing military assets over new acquisitions.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, Major General Mirdas made this revelation while leading the Iraqi delegation at the Seoul International Aviation and Defense Exhibition (ADEX). In a statement to NINA, he clarified that Iraq’s participation aimed to explore South Korea’s latest military technologies and complete requirements for the T-50 aircraft, rather than entering new aviation contracts.
Major General Mirdas detailed key components of Iraq’s development strategy centered around the Korean T-50 fighter jet. He highlighted plans to arm the Iraqi fleet with conventional and guided bombs post pilot training, leveraging the jet’s precise firing systems. The strategy includes imminent testing of these bombs, pending delivery of armamen
t manuals from the Korean manufacturer.
The T-50 aircraft’s dual functionality as both a training platform and a combat fighter was underscored, providing operational flexibility and enhancing the air force’s capabilities. Mirdas reaffirmed Iraq’s commitment to fulfilling its contractual agreements with South Korea, noting the successful completion of a prior T-50 contract and plans for a subsequent agreement.
Beyond engagements with South Korea, the Iraqi delegation held meetings with counterparts from the United States, Jordan, and Algeria, exploring future military collaborations. Major General Mirdas expressed optimism about the Iraqi Air Force’s trajectory, supported by the Ministry of Defense and Army Chief of Staff.
The ADEX Seoul exhibition serves as a platform for Iraq to refine its defense strategies, emphasizing prudent investments in current assets. This approach reflects Iraq’s strategic military planning aimed at building a robust and advanced air force.
ADEX 2025, one of South Korea’s large
st aerospace and defense exhibitions, features 600 companies from 35 countries. The event showcases diverse military technologies, including fighter jets, helicopters, and defense systems.