Iraq and France Near Deal for 14 Rafale F4 Fighters

Iraq Set to Procure Rafale F4 Fighters: Baghdad’s Rafale Deal with France Could Redefine Iraq’s Air Sovereignty and Regional Deterrence Capabilities

Iraq is on the cusp of one of the most consequential military transformations in its modern history, as negotiations with France for the acquisition of the Dassault Rafale fighter jet approach their final stage. According to multiple specialised French aviation and defence media outlets, Baghdad and Paris are expected to formally conclude the agreement in 2026, potentially during the first half of the year, after more than three years of sustain…

Iraq and France near deal for 14 Rafale F4 fighters

Iraq may be moving closer to a long-discussed acquisition of the Dassault Aviation Rafale, with new reporting suggesting negotiations have entered a more advanced phase and that a contract could be signed in 2026.  Citing Iraqi sources, French aviation outlet Avions Légendaires reported on December 16, 2025, that Baghdad and Paris are in late-stage discussions over the potential purchase of 14 new-build Rafale F4 fighters.  Reported deal centers…

Iraq Acquires 14 Advanced Rafale F4 Fighter Jets Shifting from F-16 Fleet

Your Page Title Paris, January 5 - In a significant shift for the Iraqi Air Force, Iraq is poised to acquire 14 advanced Dassault Rafale F4 multirole fighter jets from France, marking a diversification from its long-standing reliance on American Lockheed Martin F-16IQ aircraft. Negotiations, ongoing since 2022, are expected to culminate in a contract signing in 2026, introducing the latest Rafale F4 standard to Baghdad's arsenal. This move refle…