Russia to send assault helicopters to Iraq

Iraq is expected to receive another batch of MI-28 helicopters from Russia soon, a military-industrial source has revealed. Russia’s Interfax news agency reported the news of the despatch of the attack helicopters, known as “Night Hunters”, on Tuesday.

According to AlKhaleejonline.com, Moscow is planning to give Iraq 20 helicopters, as stipulated in previous deals signed by the two countries. Algeria has also, it is claimed, requested a developed model of the MI-28.

The Iraqi defence ministry had announced previously that it has received three Su-25 jets as part of the deal signed with Russia. “The Su-25s will support our ground forces in destroying targets in the air and on the ground,” said spokesman Nasser Nouri Al-Tamimi in a press release. He added that the aircraft are fitted with 30mm cannon and surface-to-air and air-to-air missiles, as well as bombs.