Jordan sells 16 aircraft for Iraqi Air Force

[The Straight Story]

JORDAN SELLS 16 AIRCRAFT FOR IRAQI AIR FORCE

AMMAN -- A Jordanian firm has completed the sale of 16 aircraft for Iraq's new air force.

Jordan Aerospace Industries has won a $12 million award to provide the Iraqi Air Force with 16 surveillance aircraft. The company, with an aircraft production and assembly plant outside Amman, identified the planes as the SAMA CH2000 surveillance aircraft.

"JAI, the first and only certified light aircraft manufacturer in the Middle East, competed with several U.S. and European manufacturers to win this comprehensive program that includes supplying the Iraqi Air Force through the U.S. Army with the aircraft as well as pilot and mechanics training, spare parts and long-term logistical support," JAI president Muayad Al Samaraee said.

Executives said the SAMA, meant for day and night missions, has been equipped with forward-looking infrared systems as well as a multi-sensor imager. They said the aircraft would also be equipped with the Harris communications system to ensure a link with both air and ground assets.

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