Iraq Chooses KAI T-50 Jet Trainer
Iraq and Korea sealed a deal for 24 T-50 jet trainers in Baghdad on December 12. (Photo: KAI)
Iraq and Korea sealed a deal for 24 T-50 jet trainers in Baghdad on December 12. (Photo: KAI)

Iraq has signed a contract with Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) to buy 24 T-50 Golden Eagle advanced jet trainers. According to KAI, the deal at the outset is worth $1.1 billion, including initial pilot training, but will almost double in value with the addition of support over 20 years. Iraq also evaluated the Aero Vodochody L-159, BAE Hawk Mk 128 and Yakovlev Yak-130, according to KAI.