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# Iraq Moves Toward New Bell Helicopter Fleet in $800M U.S. Defense Deal
- URL: https://www.warfaredecoded.com/iraq-moves-toward-new-bell-helicopter-fleet-in-800m-u-s-defense-deal/
- Published: 2026-09-06T15:16:02.000Z
- Updated: 2026-09-06T15:16:02.000Z
- Author: Kevin Macmellon

## Major Upgrade for Iraq’s Rotary-Wing Fleet

The United States has approved a potential **$800 million Foreign Military Sale to Iraq**, covering a package of Bell helicopters, weapons, sensors, communications equipment, training, and logistical support. 

The U.S. State Department notified Congress of the proposed deal on **August 31, 2026**, with **Bell Textron** of Fort Worth, Texas, identified as the principal contractor.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/1e/44/1e448b0d-1e44-4bbb-bad8-c4da165a2995/content/images/2026/09/Bell-360-Invictus-takes-flight--showcasing-its-sleek-attack-reconnaissance-design--high-speed-capability-and-advanced-rotorcraft-technology-2.png)

Bell 360 Invictus takes flight, showcasing its sleek attack-reconnaissance design, high-speed capability and advanced rotorcraft technology

## Bell 412EPX and Bell 407M

At the center of the proposed package are the **Bell 412EPX** and **Bell 407M**. The 412EPX is a twin-engine utility helicopter suited to transport and support missions, while the 407M is configured for military missions including armed reconnaissance and light attack.

The notification does **not specify the number of helicopters** Iraq would ultimately receive.

## Weapons and Advanced Sensors

The proposed package goes beyond the aircraft themselves. It includes **GAU-19 machine guns, M260 rocket launchers, MX-15HDI electro-optical/infrared sensor systems and AN/AAR-60 Block 2 missile-warning systems**, along with radios, spare parts, ground-support equipment and training.

This combination would give Iraqi forces greater capabilities for **troop transport, reconnaissance, surveillance and air-to-surface targeting** while improving their ability to operate and maintain the aircraft independently.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/1e/44/1e448b0d-1e44-4bbb-bad8-c4da165a2995/content/images/2026/09/Bell-360-Invictus-races-through-low-level-terrain--highlighting-its-agility--speed-and-purpose-built-design-for-future-attack-and-reconnaissance-missions.png)

Bell 360 Invictus races through low-level terrain, highlighting its agility, speed and purpose-built design for future attack and reconnaissance missions

## Part of a Broader U.S.-Iraq Defense Relationship

The proposed sale comes as Iraq continues to develop its own security capabilities and modernize its military aviation fleet. The United States has maintained a substantial Foreign Military Sales relationship with Iraq for years, including earlier purchases of **F-16 fighters, C-130 aircraft and Bell 407 helicopters**.

The new helicopter package therefore represents more than an aircraft purchase. It could further shift Iraq's rotary-wing capability toward **U.S.-supplied platforms and systems**, while strengthening interoperability and long-term defense ties between Washington and Baghdad.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/1e/44/1e448b0d-1e44-4bbb-bad8-c4da165a2995/content/images/2026/09/Kern-County-Fire-Department-Helicopter-408-takes-to-the-skies--supporting-firefighting--rescue-and-emergency-response-missions.png)

Kern County Fire Department Helicopter 408 takes to the skies, supporting firefighting, rescue and emergency-response missions

## $800 Million Does Not Mean a Final Contract

Importantly, this is a **potential Foreign Military Sale, not a completed $800 million contract**. The figure represents the estimated value of the proposed package, and the final quantity, configuration, price and delivery schedule can change during negotiations.

If finalized, however, the deal would mark a significant investment in Iraq's military helicopter fleet and provide Baghdad with a combination of **transport, armed reconnaissance, surveillance and targeting capabilities** built around American-made helicopters.

Author: Kevin Macmellon