Iraq Calls for Overhaul of Military Contracts Amid Surge in Drone and Missile Attacks
A member of Iraq’s parliamentary Security and Defense Committee has called for a comprehensive review of the country’s military procurement strategy following weeks of sustained drone and missile attacks linked to the ongoing conflict involving Iran.
Waad al-Qaddo, a committee member, urged the Ministry of Defense to reassess both completed and ongoing armament contracts to ensure their effectiveness in addressing evolving security threats. Speaking to state media on Sunday, he stressed the “urgent need” to evaluate the efficiency of current weapons systems and their suitability for Iraq’s present defense requirements.
The call comes amid continued regional instability stemming from the US-Israeli war on Iran, which began on February 28. The conflict triggered retaliatory strikes by Iran and its allied groups targeting US interests and Israel, with Iraq and the Kurdistan Region caught in the crossfire. Despite a ceasefire agreement between Washington and Tehran reached on April 8 and later extended, attacks in the Kurdistan Region have persisted.
Al-Qaddo acknowledged that Iraq’s radar systems are relatively effective but noted critical gaps in the country’s broader defense infrastructure. He emphasized the need for an integrated defense system, prioritizing air defense capabilities and the modernization of radar technologies to maximize their operational use.
Highlighting the changing nature of warfare, he pointed to the growing threat posed by one-way attack and suicide drones. He called for a reassessment of Iraq’s military doctrine, advocating a combination of conventional strategies with advanced technological solutions.
“Modern threats require modern responses,” al-Qaddo said, underscoring the importance of acquiring specialized weapon systems capable of efficiently neutralizing drones and other emerging threats.
According to a report released on Saturday by the Kurdistan Regional Government, the Region has been targeted by at least 809 missiles and drones between February 28 and April 20. The attacks have resulted in 20 fatalities and 121 injuries, in addition to extensive damage to homes, businesses, and vehicles.
