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NEWS RELEASE HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES CENTRAL COMMAND 7115 South Boundary Boulevard MacDill AFB, Fla. 33621-5101 Phone: (813) 827-5894; FAX: (813) 827-2211; DSN 651-5894

November 19, 2004
Release Number: 04-11-68


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


IRAQI AIR FORCE GETS NEW AIRCRAFT

The United Arab Emirates delivered four Comp Air 7SL aircraft to Basrah Air Base Nov. 13 to be used by the Iraqi Air Force. The aircraft were a gift to help Iraq's air force continue to build its operational capability. Three more Comp Air aircraft will be delivered within the next two weeks.

The Comp Air 7SL, built by Aerocomp Inc., is a light turbo-prop aircraft that has six seats and a sensor suite enabling it to have a reconnaissance capability, although current intentions see them being used in a utility role. The seven aircraft represent one half of a gift from the U.A.E. and will be augmented by four Bell Jet Ranger Helicopters in late December.

So far four Iraqi air force pilots have completed training on the Comp Airs in the U.A.E.. Comp Air continuation training will be based out of Basrah until new facilities are completed at Baghdad International Airport at the end of January 2005. Eventually, the Comp Airs and Bell Jet Rangers will comprise the Iraqi Air Force's number 3 Squadron, which will operate in a utility light transport role from 'New Al Muthana' - the West BIAP Air Base currently being refurbished.

The Iraqi Air Force also uses Seeker SB7L Seabird aircraft.

For more information on the Iraqi Air Force visit the MNSTCI Web site at www.mnstci.iraq.centcom.mil.

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