DefenseIraq, France plan 2026 Rafale deal for 14 fighters
The governments of Iraq and France are set to sign a contract for the purchase of 14 Dassault Rafale F4 fighters for the Iraqi Air Force. Negotiations, which began in 2022, are expected to conclude in the first half of 2026.
The proposed deal covers ten single-seat Rafale C and four twin-seat Rafale B aircraft and also include options for advanced air-to-air missiles, such as the MICA NG and Meteor.
Iraqi Air Force planners have highlighted the Rafale F4’s strike potential as a key factor in the procurement discussions.
Since 2022, France and Iraq have worked to finalize terms addressing operational integration and weapons suite. The Rafale’s advanced air-to-ground systems remain under consideration as part of the final agreement.
The Iraqi Air Force currently operates 34 Lockheed Martin F-16s alongside older Russian types. Previous modernization efforts have focused on integrating Western platforms to bolster both air defense and strike roles.
Regional interest in the Rafale has increased over the past decade, with contracts signed by Egypt, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. Dassault has delivered over 230 Rafales to export customers since the type entered service.
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