To address growing security challenges linked to airspace violations, Iraq is moving toward defense systems from Turkey and South Korea instead of relying on U.S. or Russian systems.

A New Strategy for Air Defense

Violations of Iraqi airspace during the U.S.-Iran war have pushed the Iraqi government to adopt a new multi-layered air defense strategy.

The move comes after traditional methods of airspace protection, based on radar systems and direct air defense, failed to repel drone and missile attacks.

Medium-Range Defense Systems

Several Iraqi media outlets reported that Iraq has begun purchasing medium-range defense systems from South Korea capable of intercepting warplanes and missiles.

Disappointment with U.S. and Russian Systems

Iraq’s decision to purchase defense systems from Turkey and South Korea follows growing frustration over efforts to acquire American and Russian air defense systems, which faced political obstacles and challenges.

Defense Agreement with Turkey

In recent days, Lieutenant General Saad Harbiya announced during his participation in the SAHA 2026 defense and aerospace exhibition in Turkey that the Iraqi government had signed a contract with Turkish defense industries to purchase 20 air defense systems.

Response to Drone and Missile Attacks

Harbiya stated that the agreement comes as a direct response to the wave of drone and missile attacks targeting Iraq, which exposed weaknesses in the country’s air defense capabilities during the U.S.-Iran conflict.

He also noted that Iraqi skies were filled with drones during the war and said the new systems were specifically designed to intercept missiles and drones targeting oil fields and diplomatic missions.

Value of the Defense Contract

The Iraqi defense contract is valued at approximately $300 million, with payments to Turkey scheduled in installments. The systems are expected to be distributed across different provinces.

Hisar and Korkut Systems

The systems Iraq plans to acquire are the Hisar and Korkut air defense systems, two of Turkey’s key defense platforms. These systems are also used by countries including Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.