Iraq receives firefighting helicopters from South Korea in boost for emergency response

BAGHDAD — Interior Minister Abdul Amir al-Shammari announced Saturday that Iraq has received two firefighting and rescue helicopters from South Korea for deployment in Baghdad, with additional aircraft expected soon for Basra and Nineveh governorates.

Al-Shammari said eight pilots and 17 technicians are currently training in South Korea to operate and maintain the new helicopters. He noted that the aircraft “are capable of flying in various weather conditions and have high flexibility for refueling.”

During a ceremony marking the handover, he said, “We have received advanced aircraft of the latest model specialized in search operations,” adding that “these helicopters are distinguished by their ability to operate in all weather conditions and possess high flexibility for refueling.”

He added, “With the support of the commander-in-chief of the armed forces, we have received the first two helicopters in Baghdad for firefighting operations under all weather conditions. We are in the process of bringing four more — two for Basra and two for Nineveh. We have trained pilots, and there are currently eight pilots and 17 technicians training in South Korea to operate these aircraft.”

Iraq finalized a helicopter deal in May, as part of an agreement with Korea Aerospace Industries to enhance its civil defense and emergency capabilities. The aircraft, one for firefighting and another for flood and disaster rescue, are the first to join the Civil Defense Directorate since its establishment.

The acquisition follows a December 2024 meeting between Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani and Korean officials, where both sides discussed expanding Iraq’s civil and military aviation capacities. The move is part of a broader modernization plan to strengthen the country’s emergency response infrastructure amid rapid urban growth