Iraq took delivery of f-16 fighters,wonder how long

[Torch]

they will survive and or getting in the hands of Iran........

 

[FLYBOYJ]

"In terms of its front-line fighters, its chosen F-16IQ Block 52s show a pattern of slight downgrades from the more advanced F-16C/D Block 52 base systems. The official export request's determined avoidance of sophisticated air to ground weapons like GPS-guided JDAMs, or advanced air-to-air missiles, also seems designed to assuage regional fears. The net effect seems cleverly calibrated to give Iraq an air defense force that can handle aging threats from Syria or Iran relatively well, and perform strike missions within Iraq, without being a serious threat to more advanced air forces in the region. Regional memories among its Arab neighbors, as well as Israeli concerns, make that a smart starting point. Upgrades can always take place later, and the F-16IQs have at least some of the equipment required to handle more advanced weapons.

First flight took place in May 2014, and the 1st delivery of 2 planes is scheduled for September 2014, with at least 2 arriving every month thereafter. All 36 ordered fighters are expected to arrive by the end of 2015."

The New Iraqi Air Force: F-16IQ Block 52 Fighters

 

[Torch]

I was reading somewhere that with most of the pilots this is there first experience with high performance aircraft, it will be interesting to follow their maintenance and performance ratings as time goes on. They just lost an Iraqi pilot during training..Iraqi pilot dies after F-16 crashes in Arizona - CNN.com

 

[pbehn]

they will survive and or getting in the hands of Iran........

If they fall into ISIS hands just tell them they are symbols of an ancient druid religion.

 

[Capt. Vick]

...before one or more of them defect to ISIS and bomb their own.