Commander-in-Chief Orders Air Defense Development Accelerated to Three Years

Commander-in-Chief Ali Falih Al-Zaidi has directed accelerating the air defense system development plan for completion within three years, reduced from six. This directive, without affecting overall system capabilities, followed Al-Zaidi's visit to the Air Defense Command. Major General Yahya Rasoul, Ministry of Defense spokesperson, stated today, Friday, that the ministry works to complete the air defense system for balanced operation. Rasoul clarified armed forces comprise five commands: ground, naval, air, air defense, and army aviation. Major General Rasoul noted Air Force and Army Aviation possess good capabilities, with efforts underway to enhance them. He revealed the Army Chief of Staff had presented a six-year study, budget-based. However, the Commander-in-Chief’s post-inspection directive shortened this to three years. Rasoul added technical delegations and continuous meetings with reputable specialized international companies are ongoing. He affirmed the upcoming period will see a "transformation" in air defense, explaining it involves integrated systems: missiles, high/medium/short-range radars, being completed via company communications. He also confirmed Iraq operates highly efficient French radars distributed across air defense sectors. Nevertheless, comprehensive, integrated system development remains essential.