Iraq to deploy South Korean KM-SAM air defense system in 2026

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s military said the South Korean KM-SAM air defense system will enter service early next year as part of a broader effort to modernize the country’s defenses amid growing regional tensions.

Maj. Gen. Tahseen al-Khafaji, director of media and moral guidance, told the state news agency that “the commander in chief of the armed forces and the minister of defense are giving great attention to the armament of the Air Defense Command.”

He said a joint exercise named Ababeel was held Tuesday with the French Air Force to monitor coordination between aircraft and aerial targets. “The Ministry of Defense has reached advanced stages in the armament of the Air Defense Command, as the contract for the South Korean KM-SAM system was signed, and it will enter service in Iraq at the beginning of next year,” al-Khafaji said.

The KM-SAM, also known as “Cheongung,” is designed to intercept aircraft and ballistic missiles. Al-Khafaji described it as “one of the modern and advanced systems, with high capabilities that match the best systems worldwide,” adding that it would play a “major role” in strengthening Iraq’s air defense.

Calls to strengthen Iraq’s defenses grew after June’s 12-day war between Israel and Iran, when both sides reportedly used Iraqi airspace. Iraq later lodged a complaint with the United Nations Security Council, accusing Israel of violating its sovereignty.

Drone and missile strikes since then have hit airports, homes, and energy facilities in several governorates, highlighting Iraq’s vulnerability and pushing officials to accelerate procurement. Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani has repeatedly said modern air defense is a priority for protecting Iraq’s skies.