Operational Commands as of 31 May 2014

This Iraqi Security Force (ISF) update provides a summary of changes to the ISF during May 2014.  The Iraqi Security Force Order of Battle is updated as of 31 May 2014.

Iraqi Army 

The 7 May Khaima mentioned the 110th Technical Equipment Regiment in Anbar. This is the first report of the 110th TER.  Previous reports of the 1st and 115th TERs indicate significant expansion of these regiments.  What their purpose is has not been identified – they are either maintenance or signals intelligence units.

A proposed FMS sale of 200 M1151 HMMWVs to equip the Iraqi Army’s Oil Pipeline Security Division was announced by DSCA.   This is the same as the initial issue of HMMWVs to IA Infantry Divisions:  15 per Battalion and 5 per Brigade HQ for 50 total per Brigade - 4 Brigades.  This Division has also been receiving 120mm Mortar training indicating it is to be an Infantry Division assigned to oil security vice a Security Division.  According to the 28 May Khaima the IA Oil Protection Division has been designated the IA 18th Division.

Iraqi Aviation

Iraq’s first F16D made its maiden flight in Texas.  4-8 F16s are expected to deliver by year’s end.

Iraq has requested a possible sale of 24 AT-6C Texan II Aircraft for light air support [COIN]. 

Iraq has requested a possible sale of 7 Aerostats (17 meter) and 14 Rapid Aerostat Initial Deployment (RAID) Tower Systems.

According to the 28 May Khaima Iraq has received a 2nd delivery of 4 Mi35s at New Al Muthanna AB.  This brings the number of Iraqi Mi35s to 8.  Despite other rumors - Mi28NEs have not been delivered yet.

Operational Commands as of 30 April 2014 

This Iraqi Security Force (ISF) update provides a summary of changes to the ISF during April 2014.  The Iraqi Security Force Order of Battle is updated as of 30 April 2014. 

• T90 Tanks for IA. 
• 12 L159 for Iraq; Russian helicopter deliveries in June.

Iraqi Army

The 16 April Khaima reported T90 training for the 3-34/9 Tank Regiment.  Apparently Iraq has contracted with Russia for an unknown number/variant of T90 tanks.  One tank regiment is 35 tanks but it is likely that more are being ordered.   The T90 program started life as T72Bu [T72 Upgrade] and 5 tank regiments of the 5th Mechanized Division are training on T72s.  There have been no reports of other T72 type buys and no deliveries yet.  Previous reporting indicated that BTR-82s are to replace BTR4s in 5th Mechanized Division and now the reporting indicated that the BTR4s delivered prior to the cancellation of that order will be used with the T90s in 9th Armored Division or a new Armored Division as well as the 5th Mechanized Division.  This indicates 210-420 T90 tanks are on order depending on 1 or 2 heavy divisions to be equipped.  Reporting on the Russian arms contracts continues to be contradictory and unconfirmed.

Iraqi Aviation

Negotiations for 12 used L159 Light Attack aircraft were reported.  This is not to be confused with the previously reported 2-seat Trainer version that lost the competition with Korea’s T50 Jet Trainer.  Their purpose is different.   Iraq is looking for quick delivery to provide air support this year.  "The mothballed L-159s should be delivered to Iraq by September 2014 at a cost of 200 million U.S. dollars, said Martin Danko, spokesman for Penta Investments."

Reportedly Iraq will receive 4 MI-35 and 3 MI-28 helicopters in June.  Also mentioned was that 43 helicopters shall be handed to Iraq by the year 2016.  Reporting on the Russian arms contracts continues to be contradictory and unconfirmed.

 Operational Commands as of 31 March 2014 

This Iraqi Security Force (ISF) update provides a summary of changes to the ISF during March 2014.  The Iraqi Security Force Order of Battle is updated as of 31 March 2014. 

• Army:  New IA Battalions reported; IA training KRG.
• Aviation:  12 L159 may be bought; First F16s arrive in July.
• Interior:  3/1 FP Brigade replaces Presidentials.

Iraqi Army

The 5 March Khaima reported on an inspection of ongoing training of the 1st Independent Technical Equipment Regiment and the 115th Technical Equipment Regiment.  No description of their function was provided but the name infers either Signals Intelligence or Communications Repair.  The number 115th also fits for a 15th Division subordinate, yet despite all the indications of 2-3 new IA Divisions forming – a 15th Division commissioning has not been reported.

The 5 March Khaima also reported on IMOD’s Inspector General visiting the 3rd Military College at Sulaimaniyah. This school is training Regional Guards units in Infantry and Artillery Gunnery.

Iraqi Aviation

Iraq is negotiating about the purchase of 12 redundant Czech L-159 combat aircraft for light ground attack.

According to 26 March Khaima the first batch of F16s will be ready in June and arrive in July.The Korean fighter jets [T50] will be in Iraq in less than 2 years.  For training we have our fleet of training aircraft as well as the upcoming Pakistani trainer aircraft. We are also looking at other manufacturers for aircraft that fill our needs. There is another contract for other aircraft from a world class manufacturer for us. We are preparing a new airbase for the air academy.  The maintenance and overhaul centre for the F16 is being built.

Iraqi Ministry of Interior

BOC has announced the replacement of the 1st and 2nd Presidential Brigades with the 3/1 Federal Police Brigade.  This transfers the last IA personal security for the Iraqi Government [President, PM, CoM, CoR] to the Federal Police.

Admin Note

The ISF OOB is reorganized as follows:

• Page 1: Non-Operational Command subordinates and Higher Commands of the MoD/MoI
• 2: Support and Training Commands of the MoD/MoI
• 3: Services Separate from Operational Commands [ISOF, AAC, ADC, IqAF, IqN, IqM]
• 4: Baghdad Operational Command
• 5: Jaziria Operational Command
• 6: Ninawa Operational Command
• 7: Anbar Operational Command
• 8: Tigris Operational Command
• 9: Samarra Operational Command
• 10: Rafadain Operational Command
• 11: Maysan Operational Command
• 12: Furat Awsat Operational Command
• 13: Basrah Operational Command
• 14: Kurdish Regional Guards
• Appendixes remain same as before.

Some units are double listed with Home OC in grey and secondary listing with deployed OC in black.  Opinions and suggestions solicited - djyae@comcast.net

Divisional OOB as of 28 February 2014  

This Iraqi Security Force (ISF) update provides a summary of changes to the ISF during February 2014.  The Iraqi Security Force Order of Battle is updated as of 28 February 2014. 

• IA:  Sulaymaniyah IA Military Academy training KRG; Anbar deployments; More tanks delivered to IA?;  Oil Protection Division. 
• Aviation:  Iraq buying 24 Super Mushshak trainers and 24 AT-6Bs; Contract awarded for renovations at Balad to support F16s; More weapons from ROK?
• ISF OOB Reorganizing next month.

Iraqi Army

The Iraqi Army shut down all but one of its Military Academies during 2009 due to the budget crunch.  Sometime later they reopened all four.  According to the 12 February Khaima, the Third Military College was established in 2005 and has run Army courses, Sons of Iraq courses and now Peshmerga courses. It is interesting that the IA is now claiming both of the Military Academies located in the KRG and that they are supporting training the Peshmerga.

A rough count of elements augmenting Anbar indicates at least the equivalent of 2 IA Division drawn from 8th Mech, 9th Armor, 10th Mech, and 14th Divisions have been temporarily deployed there.  The 9th Armor Division HQ is also reported in Anbar.  Rumors in late 2013 were that 8th Mech Division HQ was to deploy to Anbar but, now the rumor is that 14th Division HQ may deploy there.  It would make sense to deploy an additional HQ to Anbar for the duration of this augmentation to provide additional command and control.  This is officially a temporary deployment with support and ADCON from home bases with local improvisation – which is not working well.  Also, the Office of the Commander in Chief has reportedly stated that formation of Corps is on hold until after the political crisis and that Operational Commands would be it until then. 

The 19 Feb Khaima reported an interview with the Commander 18^/5 Mech Brigade. The 4-18/5 Tank Regiment was reported to have received advanced tanks and armored fighting vehicles.  There have been no reports of additional tank deliveries to Iraq and all of 5th Mech Division’s tank training has been on T72s.  What advanced tanks and from where?

The 26 February Khaima had an article on the newly commissioned IA Oil Protection Division.  Of note, only 1 battalion and 1 Brigade of this division has been reported active.  In that article the OPD Commander Kemal Saadi Hamed stated: 

• The oil protection division protects the Iraqi Turkish oil pipeline.
• The unit was recently established on orders of the Commander in Chief.
• It is part of the IGFC.
• Initially the division HQ was in the old MOD building in Baghdad, but has now moved to the operational area.
• Initially the 1-1/OPD Battalion secured pipeline 46 towards Turkey, whilst the rest of the units were built up in terms of training and equipping. Now the units of the division secure the pipeline from Baiji to Fishkhabour.
• The unit has been attacked many times but maintains its cohesion.

Iraqi Aviation

Iraq is apparently buying 24 Pakistani Super Mushshak trainer aircraft.  Iraq is also getting training from Pakistan.  Additionally there is an unconfirmed report that Iraq is ordering 24 AT-6B.   Of note, the AT-6Bs are reported as going to the Army Air Command vice the IqAF.  This could mean the Super Mushshaks are to replace the T-6A trainers in the IqAF with the T-6As transferring to the AAC’s planned 95th Training Squadron [fixed-wing].

A contract has been awarded for renovation and reconstruction of key facilities at Balad Air Base in support of the upcoming arrival of F-16 aircraft in September 2014. Work will be performed at Balad Air Base and is expected to be completed by June 2015.

The 12 February Khaima indicated that more South Korean buys may be forthcoming.  Armed Forces Chief of Staff welcomes the Korean Defense Attaché. They discussed the training of pilots and technicians for the T50 contract that was signed as well to visit Korea and observe the other new weapons that the Korean Forces use that may be beneficial to Iraq.

Admin Note

I'm reorganizing the ISF OOB next month as follows:

• Page 1: Non-Operational Command subordinates and Higher Commands of the MoD/MoI
• 2: Support and Training Commands of the MoD/MoI
• 3: Services Separate from Operational Commands [ISOF, AAC, ADC, IqAF, IqN, IqM]
• 4: Baghdad Operational Command
• 5: Jaziria Operational Command
• 6: Ninawa Operational Command
• 7: Anbar Operational Command
• 8: Tigris Operational Command
• 9: Samarra Operational Command
• 10: Rafadain Operational Command
• 11: Maysan Operational Command
• 12: Furat Awsat Operational Command
• 13: Basrah Operational Command
• 14: Kurdish Regional Guards
• Appendixes remain same as before.

I will probably double list some elements-primary listing with Home OC in grey and secondary listing with deployed OC in black.  Opinions and suggestions solicited - djyae@comcast.net

Divisional OOB as of 31 January 2013

This Iraqi Security Force (ISF) update provides a summary of changes to the ISF during January 2014.  The Iraqi Security Force Order of Battle is updated as of 31 January 2014. 

• MoD:  Only one site is official for IMoD; 3 part plan reiterated; Working to establish Corps and Area Commands; Supply Directorate improving; Logistics and Transport; JOC; Romanian and Indonesian buys possible.
• Army:  Divisional Intel Battalions; Armor, Mech and Engineering focus; new artillery buy?; 4 Commando Battalions built up; 16/4 Brigade Re-equipped; 33 Infantry Regiments trained; New tank deal?; all brigades equipped with 120mm Mortar Battalions; 2 new Brigades identified in west Baghdad; new tanks in 5th Mech Division?
• Aviation:  Italian helos and UAVs?; preparing for new aircraft; Mi-35s delivered/Mi-28s have not; ADC status – building from bottom-up; 500 Hellfire and 24 AH64 to be bought – 6 AH64 to be leased for training pending delivery.
• Navy:  More Italian vessels?
• MoI:  Basrah FP Brigade in Baghdad.
• KRG:  14 helicopters for the KRG MoI. 

A new survey is to the right concerning a possible reorganization of the ISF pages similar to the KRG Page.  I.E.  Each page being an Operational Command with currently subordinate IA, ISOF, FP/EP, DBE, and Oil Police listed.  There are pros and cons to this.  I am looking for comments more than votes as I weight comments more than just votes.  If you do not wish to publically comment – e-mail me. 

Iraqi Ministry of Defense

In the 2 January Khaima, the Iraqi MOD reiterated that it does not have any official twitter, face book or website other than MOD.MIL.IQ.  The 9 January edition repeated this and stated:  “To all TV channels and media sources. Contact webmaster@mod.mil.iq to obtain official videos and media from the only official MOD source.” 

The 2 January Khaima also provided additional items of interest:

• According to the Chief of Staff:  In 2007 we established a committee with the US allies and NATO to build a complete 3 stage plan for the buildup of the Iraqi Armed Forces in three stages through to 2020. We managed to beat our plan for the first stage of the development plan (2008-2012). But the security situation has forced the MOD to build new units outside the scope of the original plan. But in the future we will stick to the original plan.      
• Assistant to the Chief of Staff for Operations:  The “Joint Operations Command” has become effective in bringing together large units. Right now we are in the process of building up our organizations to reach the levels of corps or regional commands.  We are building specialized wireless, troposcatter, and fiber optic network with the Korean contract. 
• Assistant to the Chief of Staff for Supply:  Recent progress has been the creation of the munitions directorate and linking the old military industrial companies (from pre 2003 era) to it to enable the resumption of the production of parts, munitions and weapons.  We have expanded the import of weapons from multiple sources instead of one, as well as induct a large number of women to the support units in line with the development in developed militaries.  We opened 5 strategic reserve fuel depots spread around the country.  For the future we are looking to build up our central depot, regain our lands and build the necessary housing units for soldiers. 

The 9 January Khaima provided data on the Directorate of Logistics and Transport, JOC, and hinted at future Romanian and Indonesian arms deals.

• Director of Logistics and Transport. Consists of the following regiments: HQ Transport Regiment, Tank Transporter Regiment, Fuel Transporter Regiment, Light Vehicle Depot [battalion], Recycled [salvaged] Vehicle Depot [battalion], Main Life Support [sustainment] Depot [battalion], Military Bakeries Command, Military Fire Fighting Command, and a Heavy Transport Company (as part of the HQ regiment) – recently established.  In addition:  In every brigade there is a transport and logistics company.  Every operations command has a transport and logistics unit.  We are planning on returning to service all the transport and logistics units we had before 2003. The Transport Command brings all the weapons purchases from the ports to the distribution centers including the Korean and Serbian contracts.
• Commander of the Jazira and Badiya Operations Command [JOC].  The unit started in Rabia area on the Syrian border last year. 428km of border area is secured by the unit, and that has since expanded to 1600km. In Ninawa it covers Sinjar, Rabia and the area towards Ba’aj plus all the way down to Hafr al Batin in the south. The depth of the OC is about 90km officially. But in reality we cover areas beyond that 90km, and in reality cover about 200km depth along the border.  WE have borders with Ninawa Operations Command [NiOC], 4th Division, 7th Division north of Rutba, and in the south with the Border Police [DBE] and the V Border Region. In reality there are 2 border commands there [in JOC], the II and V Border Divisions. We have additional units attached to us, equivalent to about a division including the 37/9 Brigade, 38/10 Mech Brigade, some units from the 11th Division including the 3-44/11 Battalion, and most of the 9th [Armor] Division with about 17 battalions is operating under our command. The command is split into north of Euphrates and south of Euphrates. The mobile HQs setup include Rabia HQ, Al Qaim HQ, 2nd Division from south of Khansa’a to Arar, and from there the V Border Division with a depth of operation of 90km. All the units fall under a single command structure including Army, Police, and Border Guards.
• General Directorate for Defense Development and Needs. Collaborating with a number of international partners on the plans including the US, Indonesia, Romania. [Note:  Probably a buy of wheeled APCs planned for motorized forces.]

Iraqi Army

The 2 January Khaima had some IA specific items:

• We are now working on closing the gaps in the reconnaissance and intelligence battalions for the divisions as well as working on an integrated data system. 
• We are working on filling the equipment gaps in our armored and mechanized units, both in equipment and support facilities and staff. We are doing constant monitoring and maintenance for the armor units, their equipment and training readiness.  We are also developing the engineering and chemical defense forces. We are constantly training on improving the training and capabilities of all the engineering, EOD units. 
• We are working on filling the equipment gaps in the artillery units, improving their training, tracking their readiness and constant maintenance of the equipment.  As part of our third phase of the armed forces build up we looked at the latest organizational, weapon and training developments in armies around the world and incorporated best practice into our plans. We also signed contracts to buy the latest in weapons and equipment for our forces as part of phase 3.  [What contract?]
• We have built up the commando battalions of the 2nd, 4th, 10th, and 14th Divisions.
• Equipped the 16/4 Brigade at Kirkush.  [With what?  Rumors of its desertion to KRG appear to be exaggerated.]
• Sent through training 33 infantry regiments. 
• The armor corps. We are about to import modern tanks to equip our armored and mechanized divisions. They will be supplied from high quality international suppliers. [What tank deal?]
• The artillery directorate.  Prepared more than 90 artillery weapons for the army.  Every brigade has 120mm mortar unit. 

The 59/6 Brigade is reported operating north of Baghdad and the 60/17 Brigade is reported operating in the Arsan area of Abu Ghraib.   There are 3 Brigades over strength reported in 6th and 17th Divisions indicating a minimum of 1 and probably 2 new divisions being formed in western Baghdad.

The 22 January Khaima mentioned “Pre-emptive operation by the tank regiments of the 5th Mechanized Division.”   Where these new tanks are from has not been mentioned.  The only tank type they have been training on is T72s.

Iraqi Aviation

The 2 January Khaima had some details concerning Aviation and Air Defense:

• General Secretary of the MOD welcomed the Italian Defense Attaché. They finalized details of the upcoming signing of a deal for Italian companies to help Iraq in helicopter construction and unmanned aerial vehicle technology.   [Coproduction of Italian helicopters and UAVs?]
• Commander of the Air Force. Our three main airbases: Assad, Balad, Imam Ali and the Air Academy are undergoing expansion and upgrading in preparation for receiving the new aircraft in 2014. 600 staff is being prepared to operate and maintain the F16 aircraft alone.  We are planning on opening a new air college near Baghdad soon.  We have also bought top training aircraft which will see the light of day soon.  We are also working on building up an electronic warfare capability.
• Mi35s have arrived and Mi28s will arrive.  [Both Russian and Iraqi official sources state that no Mi28s have been delivered yet.  Rumors and claims in the press appear to be false.  According to an aviation source:  "I asked a well-informed Russian contact:  Mi-28 has not even entered testing!  6 new Mi-35M are already in Iraq and the war.  So apparently the Mi-35Ms have been delivered, the Mi-28N not."]
• Air Defense Command. We are evaluating a large number of air defense systems from different countries.  The current units are: 1st Unguided Surface to Air [AAA] Battalion, 2nd Unguided Surface to Air Battalion, 3rd Unguided Surface to Air Battalion, 1st Early Warning and Control Battalion, 5th Early Warning and Control Battalion, Avenger SAM Battalion, IGLA SAM Battalion, PANTSIR SAM Battalion, and Southern Operations Center. We received from Egypt 23mm guns for the 1st Unguided Surface to Air Battalion. We also evaluated systems from the US, France, China, and Russia. In 2013 we obtained an Avenger Battery from the US as well as 2 radars for medium-high altitude coverage of 90% of Iraq’s airspace.  We will soon receive modern weapons from the Russian contract.  Our plan for the development of the ADC start with providing basic early warning, then short range air defense coverage followed by wider air defense system.  [This confirms that the ADC is being built from the bottom up and will not be a true IADS for probably another decade.]

Three DSCA Notices to Congress concerning possible aviation arms sales have posted in January.  It should be kept in mind that the sales have not been contracted and the prices quoted are life-span amounts with all the bells and whistles included.  Sales might not occur and prices are invariably lower.

• Jan23:  Possible sale of 500 AGM-114K/R Hellfire missiles.    
• Jan27:  Possible sale of 8 AN/AAR-57 Common Missile Warning System, 3 T-700-GE-701D engines, 3 AN/ASQ-170 Modernized Target Acquisition and Designation Sight (MTADS), 3 AN/AAQ-11 Modernized Pilot Night Vision Sensors (PNVS), 152 AGM-114 K-A HELLFIRE Missiles, 14 HELLFIRE M299 Launchers, 6 AN/APR-39A(V)4 Radar Warning Systems with training Universal Data Modems (UDM), 2 Embedded Global Positioning System Inertial Navigation System (EGI), 6 AN/AVR-2A/B Laser Warning Detectors, 12 M261 2.75 inch Rocket Launchers, M206 Infrared Countermeasure flares, M211 and M212 Advanced Infrared Countermeasure Munitions (AIRCM) flares, Internal Auxiliary Fuel Systems (IAFS), Aviator’s Night Vision Goggles, Aviation Mission Planning System, training ammunition, helmets, transportation, spare and repair parts, support equipment, publications and technical data, personnel training and training equipment, site surveys, U.S. Government and contractor technical assistance, and other related elements of program and logistics support. This will allow Iraqi Security Forces to begin training on the operation and maintenance of six leased U.S. APACHE helicopters in preparation of their receipt of new-build aircraft.  
• Jan27:  Possible sale of 24 AH-64E APACHE LONGBOW Attack Helicopters, 56 T700-GE-701D Engines, 27 AN/ASQ-170 Modernized Target Acquisition and Designation Sight, 27 AN/AAR-11 Modernized Pilot Night Vision Sensors, 12 AN/APG-78 Fire Control Radars with Radar Electronics Unit (LONGBOW component), 28 AN/AAR-57(V)7 Common Missile Warning Systems, 28 AN/AVR-2B Laser Detecting Sets, 28 AN/APR-39A(V)4 or APR-39C(V)2 Radar Signal Detecting Sets, 28 AN/ALQ-136A(V)5 Radar Jammers, 52 AN/AVS-6, 90 Apache Aviator Integrated Helmets, 60 HELLFIRE Missile Launchers, and 480 AGM-114R HELLFIRE Missiles. Also included are AN/APR-48 Modernized Radar Frequency Interferometers, AN/APX-117 Identification Friend-or-Foe Transponders, Embedded Global Positioning Systems with Inertial Navigation with Multi Mode Receiver, MXF-4027 UHF/VHF Radios, 30mm Automatic Chain Guns, Aircraft Ground Power Units, 2.75 in Hydra Rockets, 30mm rounds, M211 and M212 Advanced Infrared Countermeasure Munitions flares, spare and repair parts, support equipment, publications and technical data, personnel training and training equipment, site surveys, U.S. government and contractor engineering, technical, and logistics support services, design and construction, and other related elements of logistics support.

Iraqi Navy

The 2 January Khaima mentioned that:  The General Secretary of the MOD welcomes the Italian Defense Attaché. In addition they discussed the offers for the construction, maintenance and preparation of navy vessels for the Iraqi Navy.  [More Italian vessels for the IqN?  Rumors of more US vessels remain unconfirmed.]

Ministry of Interior 

The Basrah Federal Police Brigade has been reported operating in Baghdad.   Most of the FP training establishment is in Baghdad which has made rotating FP units through there for training common.  However, this could be backfill for other Baghdad ISF forces deployed to Anbar.

Kurdish Regional Government

On 3 January it was reported that 14 helicopters are being delivered to the Kurdistan Regional Government. MD Helicopters Inc. will officially hand over the helicopters Friday. They will be used for law enforcement, firefighting and medical purposes, according to representatives of the company.  The Arizona-produced helicopters will be used by the KRG’s Ministry of the Interior.  [Previous reporting indicates these are 12 MD530F and 2 MD902.]

Divisional OOB as of 31 December 2013 

This Iraqi Security Force (ISF) update provides a summary of changes to the ISF during December 2013.  The Iraqi Security Force Order of Battle is updated as of 31 December 2013. 

• Army:  New EPD to be Lt Infantry Division and 4th Infantry Division probably moving to Anbar;  New SP Artillery Battalion activated in 9th Armor Division.
• Aviation:  New Transport Squadron in IqAF;  6 Mi-35s delivered – no other Russian helos; 3 ARH407 delivered;  24 T50IQ ordered.
• ISOF:  Joint Special Operations Command?
• MoI:  10th DBE Brigade shifts to III Region. 

Iraqi Army

The sixth course in light artillery [120mm mortars] graduated for the new forming Iraqi Army Energy Protection Division [EPD].  This indicates this division will not be a security division but will be a light infantry division.  Previous reporting placed the EPD’s HQ in Salahadin province which could mean it is to replace the 4th Infantry Division.  In the same edition of Khaima was a report on the communications network for 4th Infantry Division which indicated they have shifted subordination from Tigris Operational Command [TOC] to Jazirah Operational Command [JOC].  This probably means 4th Infantry Division will be replaced by the EPD in Salahadin and will redeploy to JOC [Anbar/Ninawa].

A second Self Propelled Howitzer Battalion has activated in 9th Armor Division.  It is probably designated 309th Field Artillery Regiment.  This leaves 1 more artillery regiment to form to fill out the 9th Divisional Artillery Command.  This is the only IA Division to have more than 2 Divisional Artillery Battalions – 4 are planned per division.

Iraqi Aviation

The An-32s have their own squadron.  The 27 November Khaima reported on air ambulance training with the 23rd and 33rd Squadrons using C130s and An-32s.  Prior to this the C130s and An-32s were reported to all be part of 23rd Squadron.

The first batch of 4 Mi-35 helicopters were flown to Iraq in late November and flight tested/accepted on 2 December.  An additional 2 Mi-35s are also reported to have arrived and are operational.  Only 6 Mi-35s have been delivered.  No Squadron number has been mentioned for these Mi-35s.  Iraqi press is full of wild and inaccurate speculation as to numbers and types of helicopters delivered by Russia.  According to a Russian Aviation source, 6 Mi-35s have delivered and are operational, the Mi-28s have yet to be flight tested in Russia, and no Ka-52s were ever ordered.   [Comment:  “The first casualty in war is the truth.”  Most mainstream press do not know or care about the difference between fact or fiction in their propaganda.]

An additional 3 US ARH-407s have delivered to Iraq bringing those total numbers to 30.

The 11 December Khaima confirmed the order for 24 Korean T50 Jet Trainers.  These jet trainers are to deliver starting April 2016 and complete delivery within 12 months [April 2017].  Discussions were held with representatives of Lockheed Martin for the training of F16 pilots using the T6 and T50 aircraft through 2018.  Also mentioned was that Ali [Tallil] and Balad Air Bases will be the first 2 bases to receive F16s.  While the T50 Jet Trainers are being called the T50IQ, the description of those aircraft and their Role/Mission indicates they are TA50 versions.  The 18 December Khaima stated that “The purchase of the Korean aircraft will offer a protective power to defend Iraq. The aircraft will be used for training and medium military activities. The commander in chief said that the T50 contract is not the only weapons contract between the two sides and more advanced equipment and weapons to support the Iraqi military will be acquired.” What other South Korean weapons are to be bought was not specified.

Iraqi Special Operations Command

There has been repeated reporting of a "Joint Special Operations Command” in the Iraqi press.  This is probably a renaming of the Counter-Terrorism Command as former MoI Emergency Response Units [SWAT Battalions] are added to the force to expand it to 3 divisions.

Ministry of Interior

The 10th DBE Brigade and its area of northern Maysan has shifted to the DBE III Region vice IV Region.  IV Region [Maysan/Basrah] was over strength [5 Brigades] and III Region [Diyala/Wasit] was under strength [2 Brigades] which makes this a practical shift of forces and AORs.  A fourth brigade is also probably formed or forming in III Region.  This would leave the V Region [Saudi Border] as the only under strength DBE Region [1 Brigade].

Divisional OOB as of 30 November 2013

This Iraqi Security Force (ISF) update provides a summary of changes to the ISF during November 2013.  The Iraqi Security Force Order of Battle is updated as of 30 November 2013; however it remains by request only due to copyright infringement.  Requests are by e-mail.

Iraqi Army

The 6 November Khaima provided some additional data and locations on Iraqi Depots:

In 2003, all our facilities were destroyed. 35 ammunition complexes were completely destroyed and from the remaining 10 ammunition complexes 25% was destroyed. When the new army was re-established, Baiji Depot was re-established as the primary depot as well as depots in Kasik, Taji, Habaniya, Kirkush, Nu’mania, Ur with the help of the US forces. These consisted of basic containers or disused aircraft shelters. These did not meet the standards for the safe storage of munitions and have driven us to establish proper facilities for munitions storage which are no less than 5km away from the main bases. In addition, we have begun to implement proper procedures for accounting, maintaining and distributing munitions. We begun in 2007, planning the reconstruction of the munitions depot system by visiting the old depots. IN 2008 we took possession of Baiji depot, and after discussing with the coalition forces they returned some bullets and 23mm ammunition that was stored there. We also then took possession of Najaf depot and the munitions stored there. We started off training our officers and staff in 2009, 50 officers and 50 enlisted men at a time. And soon we had enough staff to reopen 4 more depots including Adhaim, Basra, Habaniya, Mosul. In taji we had a show of the munitions for the light weapons including the eastern and western rifles and Pakistani rifles.

The 13 November Khaima indicated that there is a possible Romanian arms buy in negotiations: 

The General of the Chief of Staff welcomes a visit by the Romanian Military Attaché. Ibrahim Mohammed welcomed Colonel Florin Disbo. They discussed the signing of the upcoming military cooperation agreement between the two countries which includes training and arming.

There continue to be indications of a new IA Division forming in Baghdad.  There are also indications that 6th Division is to be converted to an armor or mechanized division vice converting 2nd Motorized Division.

Iraqi Aviation

There were reports that an Apache buy had been approved and that 4 Mi-35s had been received early in November.  The 13 Novomber Khaima indicated that there are budget problems with buying Apaches and that the Mi-35s were arriving later in November: 

The Apache helicopters need a massive budget that the MODs current budget can’t support. The pentagon and state department had agreed to the sale some months ago. At the same time new helicopters will arrive at the end of this month from Russia with an attacking power equivalent to the apache. The munitions for the Russian helicopters have been bought and will be supplied for 4 years, and have arrived already. 

IMoD officially announced receipt of the Mi-35s on 2 December.

Ministry of Interior

The 5-6/II Commando Battalion was reported operating near Qaim in November.  This is the first report of a 5th Battalion in 6/II Brigade [presumably a 4th Battalion as well.]  This also points to an emphasis on the Qaim area as the 6/II Brigade’s HQ is at Sinjar [Ninawa].  

 Divisional OOB as of 31 October 2013 

This Iraqi Security Force (ISF) update provides a summary of changes to the ISF during October 2013.  The Iraqi Security Force Order of Battle is updated as of 31 October 2013, however it remains by request only due to copyright infringement.  Requests are by e-mail.  Changes reported include:  

• Training underutilized due to operational commitments; Under strength Artillery Brigades have been established in all IA Divisions; Division Intelligence expanding to Battalion; HET Transport Battalion reported in 9th Armor Division for first time.
• Southern SOC Exercise; Unconfirmed reports of initial Russian Mi-35 deliveries in October.
• Ten 7 meter RHIBs produced for Iraq.
• New Mech Brigade in 4th Federal Police Division?

Iraqi Army

The 2 October Khaima includes an article on training.  Only half the training availability has been used this year due to operational commitments which indicates the Iraqi army is overextended and need to add 2-3 divisions to fulfill its commitments.  Key items mentioned in that article were:

• The biggest complaint received is that not the correct personnel were sent on training programs in the past. We aim to change this by sending the soldiers for the specialist training programs.
• We are supposed to train 79 battalions, but in reality only 36 battalions were freed from operations to be trained. Also 80 companies were trained, spread across 9 locations.
•  With the current locations and capacity we can train the entire Iraqi army in 4 years. [If utilized.]

The 9 October Khaima confirmed that all of the Iraqi Divisions now have an Artillery Command [Field Artillery Brigade].  However, these brigades only have 2 of the planned 4 Artillery Battalions per Division.  The Artillery Command HQ also has an Artillery Brigade with 3 Artillery Battalions that acts as a strategic reserve to strengthen units on a need basis.  This Brigade has 2 roles – it is the Artillery Training Brigade and is the first of 8-12 planned Army-/Corps-level Artillery Brigades.

The 9 October Khaima also mentioned 12th Division’s Intelligence Battalion.  Only 3 IA Divisions have been identified as having expanded their divisional Intelligence to Battalions.

The 23 October  Khaima reported that 9th Armor Division’s Transport and Logistics Command has established a Heavy Transport Battalion.  They have specialist repair teams with the units in the field to ensure that all vehicles are able to complete their transport duties. It consists of 4 transport companies and the HQ in Taji. Every company has 11 heavy tank transporters.

Iraqi Aviation

The 30 October Khaima reported on the Southern Sector Operations Center Air Defense Command exercise in October.  Participants included the ADC commander, Chief of Central Operations of the ADC, Commander of Ali Air Base [Tallil], Commander of the Ali Flying Wing, and a number of pilots from 70th Squadron.  Aircraft made approaches from multiple directions and altitudes to test the radar systems. Also tested were the communications systems of the ground controls. 70th Squadron also launched Hornet 71 targets in the direction west of Samawa.  Targets were detected at altitudes from 100m-350m.

While there have been conflicting reports of initial deliveries of Russian helicopters in October, as of 31 October, no new helicopters have arrived in Iraq.  [This may indicate the initial 4 Mi-35s have completed construction in Russia but have not been transported to Iraq during October.  Delivery has different meanings depending on who is talking.  The manufacturer considers delivery to be when they are built and locally accepted.  The receiving country defines delivery as when they are accepted in their own country.]

Iraqi Navy 

The Iraqi Navy is accepting delivery of ten 7-meter aluminum RIBs. They will be serving as patrol boats and as tenders for larger vessels.  [See above paragraph comment on delivery.]

Ministry of Interior

A Mech Brigade has been reported as assigned to 4th Federal Police Division.  This could mean the 1st FP Mech Brigade has been attached to 4th FP Division or that a new FP Mech Brigade has been formed in 4th FP Division.  Each FP Division is expected to have a light Mech Brigade eventually but only 1 has been confirmed existing in the Federal Police at this time.

Fair Use is not carte blanch to steal others work.  You have to have permission to do more than quote bits of a copyrighted work.  Giving credit to the author does not let you off the hook.  Especially when you are selling that work.

Effective immediately, the Battalion-level ISF OOB is no longer available to the public.  I have not seen a Battalion-level ISF OOB that was not a copy of my work in 5 years.  Yet there are only 6 organizations that have asked permission to use/copy my work:

• US Department of Defense
• Center for Strategic and International Studies
• The Long War Journal [previously The Fourth Rail]
• Olive Group
• Scramble Magazine
• Defense Industry Daily

The rest are pirates.

If you are going to argue against this, be forewarned that I'm PO'd - so your ducks better be in a row.

I will entertain requests for current copies of the ISF OOB from reputable organizations.

I will continue to publish monthly updates of changes or significant events as well as service specific updates.

I'm done feeding pirates.  The irritation is not worth the 80-120 hours I've been spending per month sorting through the chaff, propaganda, and pure BS...

Divisional OOB as of 30 September 2013

This Iraqi Security Force (ISF) update provides a summary of changes to the ISF during September 2013.  The Iraqi Security Force Order of Battle is updated as of 30 September 2013.  The Article “ISOF Expansion September 2013” was published 23 September and will not be addressed here.  Key changes reported include:  

• Army:  Observation balloons/towers received; EPD Established; Numaniyah Base home to a Corps Logistics Depot?; Commando Battalions in the Area and Operational Commands?; Another Augment Battalion on the Syrian Border identified; Ordering BTR82s to replace BTR4s; IA plans 2 armored and 5 mechanized Divisions. 
• Aviation:  First F16 deliveries in spring 2014; First SAMs delivered; unconfirmed report of Mi35 delivery in October; KRG contracts for 12 MD500F. 
• Navy:  Shopping for missile boats, Russia not interested in selling. 

Iraqi Army

Iraqi MoD celebrated the commissioning of observation balloons in August.   Three 17m observation balloons and six 107 feet observation towers were received as part of the Strategic Framework Agreement with the US.  US Personnel trained the Iraqi crews in Iraq during an 8 week course.

The Iraqi Minister of Defense visited the Samara Operations Command accompanied by the commander of the 4th Division and the commander of the newly established Energy Protection Division. [Machine translator translates as Corps].  This is the first report of the new EPD being already established.  If IMoD is taking over security for oil then they are probably also taking over the 4 Oil Police Divisions – eventually a Security Corps of 5 Divisions.

Numaniyah Base includes:  the Numaniyah Logistics Depot, Defense Battalion, Numaniyah Works [maintenance], Medical Center, and the Wasit Training Center.  The main units at the site are the 8th Transport and Logistics Brigade [8th Mechanized Division], Center for Military Disciplinary School [MP School], Numaniyah Medium Factory [Maintenance Brigade], National Police School, and Numaniyah depot.    This build up of support elements is an army-/corps-level support base second in size only to Taji National Depot.

The 28 August Khaima mentioned a “Commando Battalion of the Baghdad Operations Command.”  This is the third Operational or Area Command reported to have a Commando Battalion and indicates all the Operational and Area Commands are to have Commando Battalions - maybe brigades.

A Youtube video of BMP1s operating near Al Waleed on the Syrian border was identified as a 3rd Battalion of 11th Division.  The only BMP1s assigned to the east Baghdad based 11th Division are in the 3-44/11 Mechanized Battalion.  The IA continues to increase its augment of the Syrian border. 

Iraq is in negotiations for BTR82 ICVs and an upgrade of Russian APCs from the 1980s.  One of the reasons given for this purchase is to replace the problematic Ukrainian BTR4s being used to mechanize the 5th Division in Diyala.

On page 7 of the 25 September Khaima was an article on the 85th Anniversary of the establishment of the armored corps.   Key items included in that article were:

• The re-established armored corps managed to commission the 9th Armored and 8th and 10th Mechanized Divisions with little resources via the refurbishment of old Iraqi army stocks as well importing some weapons, they managed to equip these divisions with tanks, apcs and fighting vehicles.
• We are importing other quantities of tanks to close the shortage in the armored, mechanized and infantry divisions.
• The Ministry has issued orders for the establishment of an armored division, mechanized division, mechanized brigade and mechanized battalion.
• Our order, from the commander in chief is to achieve: 2 armored divisions and 5 mechanized divisions.
• The speech by the Engineer Talal Hussain Salman, Director of the Ibn Al Walid state enterprise (a part of the ministry of industry and mining) said in his speech: The Ibn Al Walid company was established in 1987 to produce T72 tanks after an agreement with the soviet union. Now it is being re-established and is collaborating with companies in Germany, England, Italy, Spain and Russia to rebuild its capabilities.
• Ali Ghaidan, ground Forces commander said: “We hope in the next year we see a development of the armored corps so the armored and mechanized divisions can receive their full complement of equipment.”

Notice the status breakdown:

• Current planned target is for 7 Armor/Mech Divisions:  2 Armor and 5 Mech. 
• 9th Armor, 8th Mech, and 10th Mech are existing Divisions but are short tanks that are to be imported.  The mention of tanks for the infantry divisions indicates the plan is to have a mech or armor brigade in each infantry or motorized division like the 12th Division's 47/12 Armor Brigade.  This would indicate an IA target of 46-53 Tank Battalions [Regiments] - 1,610-1,845 total tanks needed.  The 245 variance is due to the difference between a mech or armor brigade in each ID.  The IA currently has ~350 tanks. 
• Now building:  U/I Armored Div, 5th Mech Div, U/I Mech Bde, and U/I Mech Bn.  5th Div was already announced Mechanizing but may replace the problematic BTR4s with BTR82.   The preponderance of armor vehicles/training in 2nd, 7th, and 14th Divisions [multi-Brigades in each division] indicates one of those as being the new Armored Division is converting [probably 7th].  The Mech Brigade is probably the 56th Brigade. 
• Also notice the plan to build their own armor with Germany, England, Italy, Spain and Russia assistance.

Iraqi Aviation

The first IqAF F16 deliveries are to be in Q2 2014 [Apr-Jun 2014] according to an RFI responsel from Mark D. Johnson, F-16/F-22 Integrated Fighter Group Communications, Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company.

The Iraqi Air Force has contracted for two F-16 Block 52 Weapon Tactics Trainers (WTTs), two brief/debrief systems and one mission observation centre.  This contract modification follows a November 2012 award to build two F-16 Block 52 Full Mission Trainers (FMTs) for the IqAF.  Plans call for the first F-16 Block 52 FMT to become ready during the first quarter of 2015 with the remaining training devices, brief/debrief systems and mission observation center scheduled to achieve readiness milestones during late 2015.

The first Avenger air defense systems were received by the Air Defense Command.  “ADC receives a modern SAM system. This is the first SAM system inducted into the new ADC, and the ADC is now working hard on inducting new radars and new SAMs which are on their way to Iraq. In addition the operations commands are being rebuilt as well as AAA being reconstituted from the remains of the old army and installed onto vehicles.”  ADC is conducting command post exercises (CPX) to prepare for further improvements.  “Air Defense Command carried out Exercise Shining Star, using the command elements (without active units), to test the organizational capability of the ADC. The aim is to hone and revise the procedures, improve target prioritization.” 

The Security and Defense Committee on Monday claimed "the imminent arrival of four helicopters, Russian-made during the current month," and indicated that "these aircraft are from the model (Mi 35) offensive," asserting that "other meal of these aircraft will arrive in November next year."  The Security and Defense Committee is known for erroneous claims - a report from them is almost always wrong.

The Kurdistan Regional Government is reported to have contracted for 12 MD 530F helicopters equipped with the latest state of the art technology, including NVG compatible cockpit, high powered searchlight and advanced avionics, and will be delivered by the end of this year.  “The KRG said the aircraft will help the Ministry of Interior Affairs in monitoring the region’s airspace, surveying the mountainous regions, and taking part in firefighting missions.”  According to another source, "The 7th Group (current operator of all the KRG helicopters) is recruiting new aviators."

Iraqi Navy

ISOF Expansion September 2013

After five years the plans for expanding the Counter Terrorism Service appear to be implementing.  ISOF is to expand from 1 to 3 Divisions with a total strength of 30,000-40,000 personnel:  Approximately 50 percent the size of US Special Operations Command supported by a population base of only 10 percent of the US.  This will require the absorption of the Ministry of Interior’s SOF to be effective.

Reporting of the expansion

The 14 August Khaima magazine mentioned that:

“The Commander in Chief commanded the execution of the order for the volunteer special forces, and the latest ministerial decree on the forming of two divisions for Special Forces. An electronic site was opened for volunteers to register for both the Special Forces as well as the energy protection division. With regards to the 2 Special Forces divisions, a special request was sent out to soldiers, officers in the Iraqi army and from the old Iraqi special forces to volunteer for the induction tests for the special force.”

This was followed by an interview with the ISOF commander where he discussed expanding to 30-40,000 personnel [from 10,000].  A Regiment [battalion] is to be added in each province except Baghdad will have 4 regiments and Mosul/Basrah will each have 2 regiments added for 20-22 additional Regiments.   Further information has indicated that 1st Commando Division will have its headquarters in Mosul, 2nd Commando Division in Baghdad, and 3rd Commando Division in Basrah.

The variance of 20 to 22 additional regiments probably reflects an additional brigade for the Kurdish Region.  It is 20 battalions without the KRG Brigade and 22 with this additional independent brigade.  These numbers are of planned additional Commando and ICTF Battalions only and do not include support the necessary support battalions.

The variance of 30-40,000 personnel could be because of:

• The possible presence/absence of a Commando Brigade in the KRG [~2,000 personnel],
• The size of the engineering support [~1,500] and
• Whether or not the dedicated Army Air Corps elements are counted [~4,500] as ISOF.

Counter Terrorism Service Absorbing MoI’s SWAT Battalions?

This increase in ISOF could not be done in less than a decade using just volunteers from the old IA, current IA, and new recruits unless ISOF absorbs the MoI ERBs.  ISOF’s existing training program only graduates the equivalent of 5 companies per year:  1 ICTF, 2 Commando, and 2 Recon.   The training pipeline does not support this expansion without reducing the quality of the force unless the ERBs are being taken over.  Effectively, they are improving/expanding C4I, Supply, Maintenance, and air support for the MoD/MoI SOF forces by consolidating them into 1 Corps sized command and adding the missing components.

The only high-end light infantry available to rapidly expand ISOF is MoI’s SWAT Battalions.  If the better half of the Ministry of Interior’s Emergency Response Battalions [SWAT] is being converted to ISOF Commando Battalions and the remaining half of the SWATs become Reconnaissance or support – this could be done in 2-3 years.  This would provide the C4I, Maintenance, and Logistics that the SWATs lack and coordinate the 2 separate COIN forces as one Corps.  This was suggested in 2008 but MoI resisted losing their Special Operations Forces and was going to administratively attach the SWAT Brigades as a fifth brigade in each Federal Police Division.  However, the MoI has insufficient C4I, Logistics, and Maintenance for their own forces in the FP.  It appears MoI’s failure to provide support to the ERBs has resulted in a return to the original plan of consolidating the Iraqi MoD/MoI Special Operations Forces into a separate service under the Minister of National Security.  The third leg of the Troika finally is forming.

This absorption of the ERBs is also inferred by the plan for at least a battalion per province – that is right out of the ERB/FP basing plan and not ISOF’s regional approach to garrisoning.  While the addition of the 17,000+ ERB personnel to ISOF’s 10-12,000 existing personnel does not reach 30-40,000 total personnel – it does provide for the additional commandos and recon personnel needed, the remainder of the expansion would be support elements.

The reason that ISOF could absorb the Emergency Response Battalions as commandos without a reduction in quality of troops is based on the similarities in training.  The personnel for MoI’s 30-42 ERBs* were selected by taking the 98+ Battalions of provincial Emergency Response Units [SWAT] and running them through a 3 month Selection Course based on ISOF’s Operator Selection Course.  The top 50% of the graduates of the MoI Selection Course went to the National ERBs.  In ISOF, the top 50% of OSC are also accepted except they are further broken down into:

• 91-100 percentiles go to ICTF,
• 71-90 percentiles to Commandos, and
• 51-70 percentiles to support such as Recon or Security.

 [*30 ERBs identified in open source reporting out of a planned target of 42 battalions.  17,000+ personnel indicate they have approximately 34 ERBs.]

It would normally take 3-4 years to fill a third ICTF Battalion since there will need to be a new selection from the new personnel but, they can immediately form three 70% strength ICTF Battalions out of the 2 existing ICTF Battalions and fill those battalions to 100% with personnel from the SWATs that pass OSC over the next 3-4 years.  Normally only ~3 percent of initial volunteers graduate into the top 10% of OSC and thus into ICTF.   However, these ERB/SWAT personnel have already been through the MoI version of OSC and made the top 50% - Indicating that 10-20 percent of MoI’s 17,000 ERB personnel could be absorbed into the ICTF Battalions.  This could mean the eventual target strength of 1 ICTF Battalion per Commando Brigade is intended vice the currently estimated 1 ICTF Battalion per Division.  Until then the existing ERBs can be quickly sorted, reorganized and used in Commando, Recon, and Security Battalions.  Additional support personnel will be required.

Light Armor?

This expansion also puts a new light on IMoD’s Indonesian shopping trip last fall.  Their interest in the Anoa Armored Personnel Carrier did not fit with IMoD’s focus – it is more the type of APC that COIN units would use.  Planning for the new Commando Divisions would have been in progress a year ago if the actual order to execute was this year. This would not be the first indication of wheeled APCs being added to ISOF.  In 2009 training of ISOF maintenance personnel on BTR80s was reported but the BTR80s never transferred.  This could mean that the Commando Battalions are to be partially or wholly wheeled APC mounted like the old IA’s Commandos were.  Traditionally, Iraqi Commandos are mounted light infantry…

Commando Division Organization and Support elements

The above illustration and organization listed in the ISF OOB is based on the number of personnel and battalions being added, the stated distribution of battalions and with a modified IA Infantry Division Organizational structure as listed in Appendix B.  The modification to the standard Divisional TOE was to strip out the field artillery, mortar, ADA, AT and other battalions that ISOF does not use and does not require for its roles and missions while adding an AAC Aviation Brigade to support each Division.

The support structure reflects existing ISOF C4I, Logistics, Maintenance, and Training structures expanded to Corps size.  Of the Iraqi Security Forces, ISOF has the best support structure while MoI’s ERBs have one of the worst support structures.  Expanding the support structure as part of this reorganization will be the greatest difficulties faced.

One thing to remember concerning these administrative structures:  In practice SOF troops rarely operate above Company strength detachments – most operations are squad or platoon strength.  All Corps and Divisional Troops will normally operate in detachments supporting or augmenting the Commando Battalions.  This is especially true of the ICTF Battalions and the ISOF AAC Air support - Both of those elements regularly operate in small detachments where and when needed.  Effectively, the ISOF organization above battalion is administrative and support as SOF normally conducts small unit light infantry operations…

 Divisional OOB as of 31 August 2013

This Iraqi Security Force (ISF) update provides a summary of changes to the ISF during August 2013.  The Iraqi Security Force Order of Battle is updated as of 31 August 2013.

Possible Foreign Material Sales to Iraq announced this month included: 

Iraq has requested a possible sale of 19 Mobile Troposcatter Radio Systems, 10 Mobile Microwave Radio Systems, spare and repair parts, support equipment, [etc].

Iraq has also requested a possible sale of

• 40 AVENGER Fire Units,
• 681 STINGER Reprogrammable Micro-Processor (RMP) Block I 92H Missiles,
• 13 AN/MPQ-64F1 SENTINEL Radars,
• 7 AN/YSQ-184D Forward Area Air Defense Command, Control, and Intelligence (FAAD C2I) Systems,
• 75 AN/VRC-92E SINCGARS Radios,
• 3 HAWK XXI Batteries (6 Fire Units) which include
• 6 Battery Fire Direction Centers,
• 6 High Powered Illuminator Radars,
• 216 MIM-23P HAWK Tactical Missiles,
• 2 Mobile Battalion Operation Centers (BOC),
• 3 HAWK XXI BOC Air Defense Consoles (ADCs),
• 1DS/GS Shop 20,
• 1 DS/GS Shop 21,
• 1 Mini-Certified Round Assembly Facility (MCRAF),
• Air Command and Control (C2) systems and surveillance radars for the Integrated Air Defense Systems that includes TPS-77 Long-Range Radars (LRR) and Omnyx-I0 Air Command and Control System, and
• 10 Medium Range Radars. Also included:
• Ground Air Transmit Receive Ultra High Frequency/Very High Frequency radio capability, facilities and construction for one (1) underground Air Defense Operations Center and two (2) Air Defense Sector Operations Centers, [etc]

A Russian report of a planned delivery of 800 Kornet-E ATGW in Sep 2013 and 12 Pantsir S1 in Dec 2013 also appeared in August.  No details on what version of launcher system or vehicle platform for these ATGWs.

The 14 August Khaima magazine mentioned that

“The Commander in Chief commanded the execution of the order for the volunteers special forces, and the latest ministerial decree on the forming of two divisions for special forces. An electronic site was opened for volunteers to register for both the special forces as well as the energy protection division. With regards to the 2 special forces divisions, a special request was sent out to soldiers, officers in the Iraqi army and from the old iraqi special forces to volunteer for the induction tests for the special force.” 

This was followed by an interview with the ISOF commander where he discussed expanding to 30-40,000 personnel [from 10,000].  A Regiment [battalion] added per province except Baghdad will have 4 and Mosul/Basrah each will have 2 regiments added for 20-22 additional Regiments. 

Further information indicated that 1st Commando Division will have its headquarters in Mosul, 2nd Commando Division in Baghdad, and 3rd Commando Division in Basrah.   A possible 4th Division was also mentioned but does not fit the number of battalions or personnel mentioned and may be confusion with the Energy Protection Division.

Some thoughts on how this ISOF expansion might be done: 

• This increase in ISOF could not be done in less than a decade using just retreads from the old IA and new recruits.  ISOF’s existing training program only graduates 5 companies per year: 1 ICTF, 2 Cdo, and 2 Recon. 
• The only high-end light infantry available to rapidly expand with is MoI’s SWAT Battalions.  If the better half of the Ministry of Interior’s Emergency Response Battalions [SWAT] is being converted to ISOF Commando Battalions and the remaining half of the SWATs become Reconnaissance or support – this could be done in 2-3 years.  This would provide the C4I and logistics that the SWATs lack and coordinate the 2 COIN forces as one corps. 
• This absorption of the ERBs is inferred by the plan for at least a battalion per province – that is right out of MoI’s ERB/FP basing plan and not ISOF’s regional approach to garrisoning. 
• While the addition of the 17,000+ ERB personnel to ISOF’s 10-12,000 existing personnel does not reach 30-40,000 total personnel – it does provide for the additional commandos and recon needed, the remainder would be support elements.
• It will take 3-4 years to fill a third ICTF Battalion.  But, they can form three 75% strength ICTF Battalions out of the 2 existing ICTF Battalions and fill those out with personnel from the SWATs that pass their course over the next 3-4 years [Only ~3 percent make it into ICTF].
• This also puts a new light on IMoD’s Indonesian shopping trip last fall.  Their interest in the Anoa APC did not fit with IMoD’s focus at the time – it is more the type of APC that SWAT or COIN units would use.  Planning for the new Commando Divisions would have been in progress a year ago even if the actual order to execute was this year.  This could mean that the Commando Battalions are to be wheeled APC mounted like the old IA’s Commandos were.

While the initial indications for the new Energy Protection Division was that it would be in Anbar, further comments might hint as to why it was announced with the new Commando Divisions. 

Major General Hamid Abdullah Ibrahim, chief of energy police directorate stated that they have plans to follow and investigate the smuggling with Iraqi oil by the formation of oil patrol teams in Kirkuk, Basra, Anbar and Baghdad. 

This could mean the new IA Energy Protection Division is to be an IA Quick Reaction Force supporting the Oil and Electricity Police with motorized brigades based in Kirkuk, Basra, Anbar and Baghdad.  This force might be formed from personnel that do not make the cut to join the ISOF Commando Divisions.

[Possible structures for the Commando Divisions and the Energy Protection Division in the OOB are based on IA standard Divisional Structure with Artillery and other ancillary units not used by ISOF or a Security Division omitted.  However, I did keep 1 Engineer Battalion per Division for route clearance support to the QRFs.  IMoD, ISOF, and the IA might disagree with my projected structure.  If they disagree – please make it public so I can update the OOB.]

Divisional OOB as of 31 July 2013 

This Iraqi Security Force (ISF) update provides a summary of changes to the ISF during July 2013.  The Iraqi Security Force Order of Battle is updated as of 31 July 2013.  Key points include:

• Army:  Shifting Army Divisions?;  Division Artillery Commands; 5-year maintenance support for vehicles provided under US EDA; 50 CBR vehicles for a CBR Rgt;  EDA Bulletin Board updated to May 2013.
• Aviation:  Russian arms sale reporting still confused; Bell 412 SAR Helicopters for IqAF?; Hawk SAMs provided to Iraq via EDA FY13.
• Navy/Marines:  12th PB delivered.
• Interior:  MoI SWAT over 17,000?; 2 FP Brigades identified; 6th attempt to fix the OPD?
• KRG:  An Arab Brigade in the Kurdish Regional Guards?

Army

It was reported on 23 July that “The independent MP, from Babil province, Iskandar Witwit said that the central government has a plan to transfer the Army eighth Division, based in Babil and the tenth Division, based in Maysan province to the western and Diyala provinces to control the security situation there.”  There have been previous claims of plans to shift IA Divisions but they have not occurred due to political reasons.  If those 2 divisions are transferred north, it would be to replace 2nd and 5th Divisions so they could upgrade/train as mechanized in the south.  It is also possible that 14th Division could swap with 7th Division after the 14th has finished upgrading to facilitate the upgrade/training of 7th Division.  Of note, 2 brigades of the 10th Mechanized Division and its Commando Battalion are already reported in the northern provinces.  Additionally, a battalion of 14th Division [1-50/14] is reported in Ninawa Province.  The 2-26/7 Battalion is also reported at Taji and being called Mech – indicating it is in upgrade training out of 7th Division’s area.

The 10 July Khaima reported on the Artillery Directorate carrying out “summer training” on US artillery guns.  Training included firing of 32 shells by each gun, maneuvers and aiming, target acquisition, surveying and planning.  The “comprehensive training” program included the following units:  

• 2nd Division Artillery Command and 102nd Medium Artillery Battalion [155mm]. 
• 5th Division Artillery Command and 105th Medium Artillery Battalion [155mm]. 
• 12th Division Artillery Command and 112th Medium Artillery Battalion [155mm]. 

This is the first report of “Division Artillery Commands” which indicates the stand up of at least 3 Divisional Artillery Brigade Headquarters.

Iraq has requested a possible sale to provide for a five year follow-on maintenance support for the following vehicles:

• M88A1 Recovery Vehicle,
• M88A2 Hercules,
• M113 Family of Vehicles,
• M109A5 Howitzers,
• M198 Howitzers,
• M1070 Heavy Equipment Trailer and Truck (HETT),
• M977 Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck (HEMTT),
• High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV), and the
• Tactical Floating River Bridge System (TFRBS).

Effectively every piece of ground combat/support equipment provided through US EDA since 2008 is covered under this proposed contract.

Iraq has requested a possible sale of:

• 50 M1135 Stryker Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical Reconnaissance Vehicles,
• DECON 3000 Decontamination Systems,
• M26 Commercial Joint Service Transportable Decontamination Systems (JSTDS),
• AN/VRC-89 Single Channel Ground and Airborne Radio Systems (SINCGARS) with Global Positioning System (GPS),
• AN/VRC-90 SINCGARS with GPS, M40A1 Protective Masks,
• Lightweight Personal Chemical Detectors LCD-3,
• Portable Chemical Warfare Agent Detectors GID-3,
• MultiRAE PLUS Gas Detectors,
• AN/VDR-2 Radiac Sets,
• M256 Chemical Agent Detector Kits,
• Decontamination Kits,
• Chemical Biological Mask Canisters,
• M8 Chemical Paper Agent Detector Kits, etc

While the Iraqi Army was reported starting to stand up Chemical Defense Regiments [Battalions] 2 years ago, this is the first serious CBR defense buy since 2003.

The US Excess Defense Articles Bulletin Board was updated from early FY2011 to May 2013.  In FY2011 a large amount of computer gear and 9 Armored Vehicle Launch Bridges was added to the already reported OH-58 spares and ribbon bridges.  For FY2012, the following items were provided to Iraq:    [FY13 is listed under Aviation.]

• 51 Z Backscatter Vans [interesting],
• 57 Armored Suburbans [2 entries for 48 and 9],
• 173 Armored Utility Trucks,
• 99 Uparmored Volvo Semi Tractors,
• 336 Mercedes 384 Armored Semi Tractors.

Aviation

Reporting on the Russian arms deal remains confused with a report of 30 Mi-28NE, plus an U/I number of Mig-29M/M2 and KA52s.  [At this point, I will not believe any numbers or types until the equipment shows up in Iraq.  The reported numbers and types are all over the place.]

Iraq has requested a possible sale of 12 Bell 412 EP helicopters equipped with Star SAFIRE III EO/IR systems, PT6T-3DF engines, KDM-706 Distance Measuring Equipment, KNR 634 VOR/LOC with MB/HSI, MST67A Transponder, Artex C406-1HM Emergency Locator Transmitter, Wulfsberg FlexComm II C5000 System with Synthesized Guard, KTR-908 Very High Frequency Radios, NAT AA-95 Audio System, 660 Weather Radar, AAI Radome, Night Vision Imaging System (NVIS) Compatible Cockpit Lighting, SX-16 Nightsun, spare and repair parts, etc.  “This equipment will provide the Iraqi Air Force with a search and rescue capability critical to developing a mature Air Force.” 

[Not Army Air Corps – IqAF.  In 2010 it was mentioned that IqAF Search and Rescue helicopters were to be collocated at the F16 bases.  This fits for 4 detachments of 3 helicopters for the 4 planned F16 Bases at Balad, Al Asad, Q-West, and Tallil.] 

The report of HAWK SAMs for Iraq was confirmed when the US EDA Bulletin Board updated to May 2013.  Listed under FY13 is what appears to be equipment for 4 ADA Batteries and a Spares/Training Battery. 

• 16 XM304 Hawk Transporter-Launchers;
• 3 M192 Hawk Towed Launcher;
• 7 AN/MPQ-61 High-powered Illumination Radars;
• 8 AN/MSW-19 Platoon Command Posts;
• 3 M501E3 Loader/Transporter;
• 2 Hawk Loader;
• 11 M501L1 Hawk Loader;
• 26 M1E2 Missile loading and storage pallets;
• 21 MTM-23 Hawk Training Missiles;
• 225 MIM-23E Hawk Missiles. 

Navy/Marines

The twelfth of 12 Swiftship Patrol Boats has delivered.  There is an option for 3 more of these boats but, there has been no report of it being exercised. 

Ministry of Interior

MoI’s SWAT is claimed to "...exceeds 17,000" in a demand to disband Emergency Response Brigades [the MoI’s Special Operations Force].  If correct, this indicates a minimum of 8 Brigades formed – probably more like 10.  MoI has been absorbing the better half of the provincial SWAT battalions by running them through MoI’s SWAT training and accepting the better 50% in each unit into the National ERBs.  An estimated 14 Brigades are planned – they are intended to be administratively the fifth brigade in each Federal Police Division.  Operationally these forces answer directly to the National Operational Center.

The 10 July Khaima mentioned an operation involving 2 previously unreported Federal Police forces operating in Ninawa:  The Al Jazira Brigade and the Tal Afar Defense Force had not been previously reported.  The Federal Police continue to retrain and absorb the Emergency Police but, have not reported forming any new Divisions despite having nationalized enough brigades for 8 FP Divisions.  14 FP Divisions are projected based on the combined size of the FP/EP [Not including KRG]. 

The 17 July Khaima reported on a new program to “reform the battalions of the oil police to make them effective in their role of protecting the assets.”  This would be the sixth attempt to fix the Oil Police since their formation.  Apparently the 10th Mechanized Division’s Commando Battalion is coordinating with the Oil Police while deployed to Bayji and may be involved in retraining and improving the logistical support for the Oil Police.

Kurdish Regional Guards

 It is rare that a KRG Brigade is identified and located in the press: “The Brayati Brigade is camping near the Zab sub-district, located 105 kilometers to the southwest of Kirkuk, as the Kurdistan Ministry of Peshmarga has formed the brigade from the Arabs of the area.”    An Arab Brigade in the Kurdish Regional Guards?

Divisional OOB as of 30 June 2013

This Iraqi Security Force (ISF) update provides a summary of changes to the ISF during June 2013.  The Iraqi Security Force Order of Battle is updated as of 30 June 2013.  Key points include:

• Final SIGIR Report – collapse of ISF Logistics/Maintenance after US withdrawal; F-16s to deliver at 2 per month starting September; M1A1s/M2s/AH64/IADS all in works; ISF capabilities.
• Airborne Brigade Mutiny?
• Ground/Air Brigade TF deployed to JO/SY tri-border.
• Air Defense Command.
• Russian Attack helicopter sale.

The last Special Inspector General for Iraq Reconstruction report was released on 30 April and included several key items in an interview with the Chief of the Office of Security Cooperation-Iraq on pages 8-10:

• "That’s right. When the U.S. forces left, no one was left to provide the fuel. The U.S. forces were the ones who made sure the generators operated. They were the ones who made sure that the systems were operating. They were the ones looking over the shoulders of Iraqis to make sure they knew what buttons on the computer to press to make sure the parts were ordered. When we left, it all crumbled, and the institutional base of the Iraqi Security Forces started crumbling too—because the U.S. forces had been holding it up."    [If Iraq can’t get its logistics/maintenance house in order then it will fail.  All the toys in the world mean nothing if they do not work or do not have fuel and ammo.  I've been hearing stories of M1A1s imobilized due to maintenance for months now.]
• "The two F-16 cases are designed to bring 18 aircraft each, with the first delivery of two planes scheduled for September 2014. Two will arrive every month thereafter, completing delivery by the end of 2015. Iraq would like them all today. They have given me a letter requesting acceleration, but they understand that we are accelerating as fast as we can. We were in the process of building the airbase infrastructure at al-Assad, and then they switched to Balad. That slowed things down. The F-16 cases, from a production standpoint, are on track. Pilot training is on track. We had some hiccups on pilot training—a couple of guys washed out—but we’re on track now."    
• “ The tank case involved the purchase of 140 M1A1 Abrams at just under a billion. They want to buy another 175 at about $1.2 billion.  [5 more Tank Regiments at 35/Rgt.]
• “The C130J case is halfway complete, with three delivered and three more to come, at a cost of less than a billion.”  [Last 3 have delivered since 30 April.]
• “The Integrated Air Defense System case is under development and could cost about $2.3 billion, but it will require congressional notification (meaning the Congress could veto it).“   [A US IADS to go with the Russian IADS?  Integration of both countries’ systems will be difficult.]
• “Also under development is a $3 billion case to purchase 24 Apache helicopters.  Iraq is getting six delivered in about nine months, under a lease arrangement, to use until the full Apache case is completed. That case also involves congressional notification.”  [1 Squadron with first deliveries 9 months from 30 April - 30 January 2014.  No public release of Congressional Notification noted to date.]
• “They want 250 Bradley Fighting Vehicles at a cost of about $800 million, and the case is under development.”  [ICV component for an Armor Division under IA structure.  5 Mech Battalions (180) and 7 Mech Companies (70) for the 7 Tank Regiments.]
• “Iraq also wants UAVs (drones), but it is also dependent on congressional notification.”
• “On the naval front, we have delivered 11 patrol boats, will deliver 1 more this year, are working contracts for 3 more, and have already delivered 2 OSVs (large transport ships)." 
• “The Navy is capable of providing some degree of defense against threats to the offshore oil-delivery platforms (such as al-Basrah Oil Terminal).”
• “The Iraqi Army’s Aviation is a very capable organization, and they are getting better, principally through the purchase of the IA-407 light attack helicopter and the instruction and training that is a part of that case.” 
• “The Iraqi Air Force is improving daily. They remain on track for receipt of their first F-16s at Balad in September 2014. And this year they received three C130J aircraft and recently flew a nighttime operational mission to Damascus, repatriating the 50-some slain Syrians who were killed in the Anbar ambush a couple of weeks ago. It was a tough mission under combat conditions, and they did well. They are flying limited RC-208 ISR imagery intelligence missions, yet their targeting and intelligence collection and analysis, other than human intelligence, remains rudimentary at best.”
• “The Iraq Air Defense is a good professional force with good leadership, yet other than the two U.S.-provided radars and the three air-traffic-control radars; their defense capability is limited to Saddam-era Russian cannon artillery.  The integrated-air-defense-system case with us is near offer, but currently held up by congressional notification procedures.” 
• “The Counter Terrorism Service is probably the most effective element in the Iraqi Security Forces for countering the one threat that is its most existential, and that is al-Qaeda terrorist affiliates.  The dilemma is that the Counter Terrorism Service is not part of the Ministry of Defense (MOD); thus, OSC-I needs special authorities to provide it with training and equipment. We have received that authority for FY 2013 in the National Defense Authorization Act, and will need to request it each year.  The governing U.S. laws are the Arms Export Control Act and the Foreign Assistance Act, but unfortunately they were designed for security cooperation during the Cold War, rather than threats that exist within today’s security environments. So OSC-I finds itself in a Catch-22 dilemma of trying to provide support for the most effective organization fighting the existential threats against the government out here in Iraq."
• "What about the Iraqi Army?  They have one division that deals with external threats. The other divisions are all employed against interior threats.  There are not a lot of external threats right now, other than what’s spilling across from Syria. Iraq’s chief objective, thus, is to defeat internal threats, and most of their ground forces are inside cities trying to deal with them. Now, that creates a dilemma for a number of reasons. One is you have central government forces working in provincial government jurisdictions, where they are competing not only with the provincial government but also with another ministry, the Ministry of Interior (MOI), which has jurisdiction over Iraq’s police forces."
• "Iraq just went to Russia and, according to open sources, preliminarily signed a $4.2 billion arms purchase agreement for air and air defense (MIG-35s and SA-22s). Strategically, this is an important message for all of their partners—that they are going to remain autonomous and independent and not going to be tied to any one particular strategic partner." 

According to Iraqi Press:  “More than half of an Iraqi Army brigade stationed in the heart of Iraq's disputed territories has defected and could be incorporated into the semi-autonomous Kurdistan region's Peshmerga security forces.  Beginning in early May, the 16th Brigade, which is based in Tuz Khurmatu, began defying direct orders to leave that volatile town, and also refused to accept an Iraqi Army decision to replace its Kurdish commander with a Shiite Arab.”[This is the Iraqi Army's only reported Airborne Brigade.  Originally raised as the 3-4 Brigade in Sulaymaniyah, this brigade participated in the Baghdad surge before being relocated to the Tuz district of Salahadin.]

Iraqi Press reports that a combined ground/air brigade Task Force of 4 battalions/squadrons deployed to the Syrian/Jordanian/Iraqi tri-border region.  An Iraqi official said "This is intended to secure the elections" in Nineveh and Anbar on 20 June.

According to the 19 June Khaima magazine: 

• The Air Defense Command can detect any aircraft entering Iraqi Airspace.  [Yeah Rrrrriiiiiggggghhhhhttttt.  Read further for where this is contradicted in the same article.]
• The ADC is one of the pillars of the Iraqi Armed forces, multiple sources of supply in weapons will be sought and no reliance on a single supplier will happen.
• The ADC is not simply about SAMs and AAA, its early warning, command and control and effective communications and decision making methods. We have inspected many advanced air defense systems in Russia, USA, Korea and France.
• Iraq now has [only] 2 early warning radars in Baghdad and Nassiriya and a third one under construction in Kirkuk. We are constructing an air defense system to rival that of the advanced nations and neighboring states. However right now we only have early warning radars and some AAA batteries.   [AAA means anti-aircraft artillery – guns.  They do not have full coverage of Iraqi airspace with only 2 functional sites.]
• The AAA batteries and the 1st Unguided Air Defense Battalion have been used to defend religious processions, the Arab League summit in Baghdad and Baghdad International Airport as well as a number of strategic locations around Baghdad. We aim to build a complete air defense system with SAMs, aircraft interceptors and modern AAA.   [First identified ADA Battalion.]

Reporting of the Russian Attack Helicopter sale has gone from confusion to total confusion.  On 17 June, it was reported that Russia had contracted to supply Iraq with Ka-52 helicopters.  This was initially believed to be confusion with the Azerbaijan sale.  Reporting on 21 June confirmed that both Ka-52s and Mi28NEs are being acquired from Russia.  Reporting from 26 June indicated that the first Mi-28s and Pantsir-S1s (SA22s) were to arrive this month.  Then on 28 June, it was reported that over 10 fully armed and equipped Mi-28NE Night Hunter attack helicopters were delivering to Iraq. 

What does all this mean?

• This is too soon to be new built aircraft and SAM systems delivering - Which means these systems are being provided from existing used stocks or from cancelled arms deals to other nations. 
• For some crazy reason, Iraq has decided to buy 2 differing attack helicopter types [Ka-52/Mi-28] from the same country thus confusing its failed logistics even further.  Buying differing systems from separate countries can be justified to prevent any 1 country’s embargo crippling you but 2 different attack helicopter types from the same country at the same time as you are buying another from the US [AH-64]?
• Then there is the mention of MiG-35 or MiG-29 buys.  MiG-35 is a modernized export version of the MiG-29 but, few countries have been buying MiGs since the attempt to rip-off Algeria by selling used MiG-29s as new.

For my US readers – Happy 237th Independence Day and 150th Anniversary of Gettysburg. 

For my Commonwealth and Southern readers - My commensurations.

Divisional OOB as of 31 May 2013 

This Iraqi Security Force (ISF) update provides a summary of changes to the ISF during May 2013.  The Iraqi Security Force Order of Battle is updated as of 31 May 2013.  Key points include:

• 2nd IA Division Mechanizing; Sorting out Operational Commands; 8th Mech Division moving HQ. 
• Funding authorized for F16 buy; Last 3 C130Js delivered; New squadron for the An-32s?; Mi-171 crashed; 24 IA-407s delivered; ADC developments; MiGs?; Army Aviation College-new Sqs ID’d;  ROK TA50 competition stalling L159 deal?; Russian deal funded and implementing. 
• 2nd FP Division being replaced in Baghdad by 4th FP Division and moving to Mosul? 
• Speculation on Operational Commands.

Army

The 8 May Khaima mentioned a visit to “the 2nd Battalion, 7th Mechanized Infantry Brigade in Al Baaj area of south-western Ninawa.  This is the second Brigade of 2nd IA Division reported to be Mech [6/2 is the other] and this is normally an area between 3rd and 7th IA Divisions on the Syrian border.  Apparently, 2nd IA Division is shifting from Mosul to the Syrian border while mechanizing.

The 14 May Khaima discussed is the cooperation between the Jazira Operations Command and Anbar Operations Command along their borders where terrorists cross the two adjacent areas and into Syria.  Ninawa OC and Anbar OC are internally focused while Jazira OC is externally focused on the borders with Syria in Anbar and Ninawa.  JOC may be a precursor to an IA Corps command while NiOC/AOC may be retained as MoI/FP Task Force/Corps commands. 

The 8th Mechanized Division HQ may be moving to Babil province.

Aviation and Air Defense

Funding for the F16 buy has been confirmed available by GoI.

The last 3 of the 6 ordered C130Js has been confirmed delivered to Iraq.

A new Squadron for An-32s has been established.  What happened to original 3rd Squadron? 

An AAC helo crashed in Wasit.  Photos indicate it was a Mi-171.

The 8th and final delivery of IA-407s occurred.  This is the 24th IA 407 aircraft and their associated support equipment to be delivered to Iraq.

The 30 March Khaima mentioned the following:

• Air Defense Batteries opened in Baghdad.
• Air Defense Batteries opened in Salahadin.
• Southern Air Defense operations command opened in Dhi Qar.
• Air Defense Technical College opened at Taji.
• Early Warning Battalions opened (visual observers).
• Site surveying in Karbala and Najaf for future air defense radars and systems.
• The rest of the regions of Iraq will also be covered by air defense systems soon.

The 8 May Khaima mentioned the following:

• The Air Force receives three C130J-30 aircraft completing the contract for 6 aircraft. (Confirmation.)
• The Air Defense Technical College inaugurates its first Surface to Air Missile course.
• Full page interview with commander of the Air force.  "From the plane of Hafdhi Aziz which first flew over the skies of Iraq in April 1931 to the MiGs or F16s that will fly over our skies by the middle of next year, Defense of Iraq's sky has once again fallen to the Iraqi pilots".   (MiGs being bought?)
• The F16 pilots are training in the US and will return in September 2014 to begin flying the F16s over Iraq's skies. 
• First F16s will arrive in September 2014 and final aircraft delivered in 2017. 
• Now there are 6 Iraqi pilots flying F16s in the US and one is already a professional. More pilots are on the way.  

The 14 May Khaima had a full page article on the Army Aviation College:

• So far 63 students have graduated. 
• Because it’s now an Army Aviation College as opposed to a flight school as it was in the past, it issues its graduates with Bachelor’s Degrees. 
• Recruits are high school graduates with a minimum of 65% grades, after physical and academic testing about 20% are chosen to attend the college. They spend the first year at the Military College (general military). In the past the second year was spent doing basic flight training at the Air Force Academy, but this has now been cancelled and pilots undergo basic training at Taji (part of the Army Aviation Academy) without going to the Air Force Academy. The third stage consists of both theoretical and flying courses. The pilot must achieve 120-140 hours. This flight training is in Habbaniyah. 
• The flying instructors have visited aviation schools in the US, Italy, Australia to observe the training methods there. 
• The college has 5 training squadrons: 200 Squadron – basic flight training (60 hours Bell 206); 300 Squadron (OH58) – basic flight training.  16 Squadron – advanced flight training (60 flight hours Mi17); 500 Squadron – advanced flight training (UH-1); and  95 Squadron – fixed wing training. 
• Student starts with 60 hours on 200 Squadron, then another 60 hours on 16 Squadron before moving to the operational squadrons. 
• 95th fixed wing Squadron will become active when the aircraft are received in the future. 

The Czech deal is still in negotiations.  Aero Vodochody continues to negotiate with the Iraqi government over the potential sale of 28 L-159 light attack and training aircraft.  Senior management has stated that talks with the Iraqi government have stalled due to fierce competition faced by the L-159 from the Korean Aerospace Industries (KAI) TA-50 Golden Eagle. 

Russia has started fulfilling its recent arms exports contract with Iraq after receiving an advance payment from Baghdad, Russian Technologies (Rostech) CEO Sergei Chemezov said.  “The contract is being implemented, the production [of ordered equipment] has started,” Chemezov told RIA Novosti on Thursday.  No details as to when delivering and the numbers and types of equipment continue to be all over the place:  28-42 Mi28NE, 42-50 Pantsir S1, 6 Mi35, and now MiG-29s have been mentioned in this buy. 

Iraqi Ministry of Interior

The 8 May Khaima included an article on the IGFC commander visiting NiOC.  The meeting was attended by the commanders of 2nd and 3rd Federal Police Divisions.  2nd FP Division is Baghdad based – this could mean 2nd FP Division is moving to Ninawa and replacing 2nd IA Division.  On 20 May an Iraqi press report referred to a "4th Police Area" in West Baghdad.  This area is normally a 2nd FP Division area - this could mean the 4th FP Division is taking replacing 2nd FP Division in west Baghdad.   The 1-5/4 FP Battalion has been reported in Bayaa District of Baghdad – 5/4 FP Brigade was previously identified as Maysan Province based.

Speculation on Operational Commands

The ISF is reorganizing its de facto Corps-level commands.  Some of the older commands have been eliminated while others have been retained.  The 4 new Operational Commands have several things in common that indicate they are future IA Corps: 

• Not named for province or city – these are regional commands.  Tigris, Jazira, Rafidain, and Furat Awsat.
• Focus is on External security vice Internal security.
• 2-3 IA Divisions in each area – factoring in the planned IA division moves:  3 IA Divisions each.

The retained older Operational Commands are all focused on internal security and appear to have 2 division-equivalents each of Emergency and Federal Police.  Ninawa, Anbar, Samarra, Maysan, and Basrah could each be becoming Police Task Forces/Corps.  [Keep in mind that they command more police than just the 2 paramilitary divisions in their areas.]

Baghdad Operational Command and its subordinate Rusafa and Karkh Area Commands could also be splitting as the Federal Police take the lead in the cities.  BOC could be becoming the IA Central Reserve while RAC/KAC becomes Police Task Forces/Corps.

A similar split is appearing in the Kurdish Region.  KRG’s Task Force Police has been established with 2 divisions of paramilitary police.  Hamirin and an unidentified Operational Command have been reported forming with each commanding 3 divisional equivalents of Regional Guards Brigades.

If this is the plan, then the ISF appears to be splitting into 4-5 IA 3 division Corps and 6-7 Police 2 division Task Forces plus the KRGs 2 Corps and a Police Task Force.  Reorganization and re-tasking is in progress – this may be what is planned.

Divisional OOB as of 30 April 2013

This Iraqi Security Force (ISF) update provides a summary of changes to the ISF during April 2013.  The Iraqi Security Force Order of Battle is updated as of 30 April 2013.  Key points include:

• IA salvaging vehicles; Artillery Training Brigade confirmed; Crew swapping M1A1s?
• Last 3 C-130Js delivered; Second batch of 18 F-16s contracted; Russian Arms Deal reporting still confused; Kut Army Air Base soon to be mission capable.
• Dhi Qar Police Special Operations Regiment reported.

Army

The 10 April Khaima Magazine had a full page article about the mechanical and electrical engineers beginning the 6th campaign to refurbish military equipment for the army.  The article included pictures of BMP1 IFVs and Type 69-II tanks being refurbished.  Equipment reported in the current batch included 16 T55 tanks, 10 BMP1 IFVs, 10 MTLB APCs, and 12 MRLs that were brought from a scrap yard in Mosul.  There are multiple lines in the Taji Joint Factory that deal with separate vehicles including T72s, HMMWVs, BMP1, MTLB, M113, M109, BTR4, M1A1, and BTR80.  33 maintenance sheds have been rehabilitated to increase the repair capacity of the Taji facility. 

Taji Base Factory may be expanding.

The 24 April Khaima Magazine reported on the Director of Artillery visit to the 2nd Medium Artillery Battalion, which is one of the artillery battalions of the Artillery (Training) Brigade based at the Artillery Directorate. Also observed was the Counter Battery Battalion (MRL) carrying out a live fire exercise.   

First confirmation of the IGFC Artillery Brigade actually being the Artillery Directorate’s Training Brigade.

Also reported was the visit of the Commander of the 9th Armored Division to the 35th Armored Brigade in Rustimiyah where he inspected the new tank shelters, repair yard and training grounds. The troops of the 35th are also undergoing training on the Abrams tanks at Besmaya.  The higher state of readiness for the 35th Brigade is in anticipation of deployment in support of Dijla [Tigris] Operations Command to relieve the 36th Armor Brigade. 

While 35/9 Brigade has had previous training on M1A1s in 2012, this brigade has never been equipped with M1A1s.  The brigade has 1 battalion of T72s while the 2-35/9 Battalion’s T-72s were transferred to another division.  What appears to be happening here is a crew swap situation with the 36/9 Armored Brigade’s M1A1s being left in the field for the 35/9 Brigade to man.

Aviation and Air Defense

In late April, the last 3 C-130J’s for the IqAF were turned over and began their flight to Iraq. 

Independent reporting indicated these 3 aircraft refueled at Shannon, Ireland on 1 May.

The contract for the second order of F-16 fighters was finally announced on 30 April.   This brings the signed contracts for fighters to 36 F-16s with none delivered.

The first 4 F-16s are to deliver by 2014 with 36 delivered by 2017.  Factoring in training time after delivery, these 2 squadrons will not be combat effective until 2015 and 2017.  Even then, the CoS of the IqAF considers 96 fighters to be the minimum needed to provide a basic air defense.  This indicates Iraq will not have an effective air defense until 2024-2027, given current rate of purchases and training.

Reporting on the Russian Arms deal is still confusing with numbers being all over the place.  What is agreed is 40-50 Pantsir-S1 SHORADs and 24-40 Mi-28NE Attack Helicopters plus maybe 6 Mi-35 Attack Helicopters.   Just as a sampling of the reporting: 

• On 1 April, Baghdad and Moscow have agreed to renew an arms deal worth $4.2 billion that was put on ice in 2012 amid corruption allegations. Russia reportedly agreed to send four extra assault helicopters as part of the renegotiations.  Russia agreed to supply Iraq with 48 Pantsir-S1 short-to-medium-range air defense systems and 28 Mil Mi-28NE strike helicopters, among other arms.  The first batch of arms under the contract is expected to be delivered shortly after the agreement is signed later this year. Iraq is reportedly seeking to purchase other advanced Russian hardware, including Mikoyan Mig-29 fighter jets. 
• Another report on the same day said that 40 Mi-28NE were being provided vice original order of 36.  
• On 18 April, The Russian military equipment exporter Rosoboronexport, the state corporation incoming Rostekhnadzor, put into Iraq has six Mi-35 helicopters for $ 256 million in addition to defense contracts for $ 4.2 billion, according to Reuters, a source close to Rosoboronexport. The representative of Rosoboronexport declined to comment. The authorities of Russia and Iraq agreed to supply arms to the amount of $ 4.2 billion, including 36 helicopters Mi-28, in October last year. In November, the Iraqi government refused to contract on suspicion of corruption, but then supplies were resumed.  New contract for 6 cars for $ 217 million ($ 256 million with ammunition) for delivery in October 2013 was signed during a visit to Iraq, the head of Rostekhnadzor Chemezov together with the head of Rosneft, Igor Sechin, on Tuesday, the source said. "In the sphere of military-technical cooperation with Russia in Iraq is now being implemented contracts totaling $ 4.2 billion, mainly on the supply of Russian helicopters," - said in a statement Rostekhnadzor reported on Wednesday. The report also says the plans localization service support equipment supplied as part of the strategy for the development of Rostekhnadzor global aftermarket.  "There are other prospects in the area, which are currently being considered by the parties at the expert level," - said in a statement. With the Iraqi authorities also discussed the expansion of contracts for the supply of military equipment to $ 8 billion from the current $ 4 billion, but no final agreement, the source said.

The Pantsir-S1 is still a rip-off.  Its missile command guidance is very susceptible to comms jamming equipment owned by every neighboring country – which reduces it to a very expensive 30mm gun system against any opponent.  There is good reason why every Western Country dropped Radio Command Guidance for terminal phase 4 decades ago.  Iraq is about to become the largest owner of this junk.  Iraqi ADC plans for 7-12 batteries based on 4-6 weapons per battery. 

Depending on how many Mi-28NEs are to be delivered – 1 or 2 squadrons are to be formed.  If the Mi-35 report is correct, those helicopters could be used as conversion trainers similar to how the 6 SA342s are used for training future EC635 aircrew.

All articles agree with deliveries starting this summer which means the Russians are selling already built equipment – either undeliverable/cancelled Libyan/Syrian sales or used Russian inventory.

The 24 April Khaima reported on a visit by the Commander of the Army Aviation Command to Kut Air Base to inspect the progress in the preparation of the airbase life support facilities and HQs of the squadrons. Also visiting the base were heads of the Special Forces and the military intelligence. 

Previous reporting on Kut indicated it was to house a Mi-17 Squadron and was a downlink point for IqAF reconnaissance aircraft.  Contracts for completion of infrastructure indicate completion planned this summer.

Iraqi Ministry of Interior

A report published by Iraqi MoI’s website referred to a “Special Operations Regiment in Dhi Qar Police.”

This is the first indication of expanding MoI National Emergency Response Battalions in Dhi Qar. 

Divisional OOB as of 31 March 2013

This Iraqi Security Force (ISF) update provides a summary of changes to the ISF during March 2013.  The Iraqi Security Force Order of Battle is updated as of 31 March 2013.  Key points include:

• SIPRI Arms Register updated - Bulgarian MTLB deal confirmed; Indications of planned additional M1A1 buys; Wasit confirmed in RaOC; Number of armor vehicles provided to 8th Division; IA received more T-72s from unknown source?; More evidence of 4th Division training to be Airborne; JOC HQ reported standing up in Sinjar. 
• SIPRI Arms Register updated – Numbers of Ingwe and Stingers listed; Russian deal resumes – numbers of Mi-28NE Attack Helicopters and Pantsir SAMs still in question; Diverse air and air defense shopping/training by Iraq.

Army

Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) has updated their arms register as of the end of 2012.   The below list is declared exports to Iraq with deliveries noted where made as of 31 December 2012 [All previously reported – only new data is numbers of R-2 ATGW and confirmation of Bulgarian MTLB APC export deal.]:

• USA: 140 M-1A1 Abrams Tank (140 delivered) Ex-US M-1A1 rebuilt to M-1A1AIM version; option on 140 more. 
• USA:  6 M-1A1 Abrams Tank Ex-US M-1A1 rebuilt to M-1A1AIM version. 
• USA:  8 M-88A2 HERCULES ARV; delivery 2014. 
• Bulgaria: 500 MT-LB APC; Ex-Bulgarian; modernized before delivery.
• Ukraine: 270 BTR-4 IFV (60 delivered); delivery probably 2011-2014. 
• Ukraine:  2700 R-2 Anti-tank missile; (795 delivered) For BTR-4E IFV. 
• Ukraine:  150 BTR-4K APC (28 delivered); incl BTR-4K and BTR-4KSh command post, ambulance and BREM-4 ARV version; delivery probably 2011-2014. 
• USA:  834 M-113 APC (834 delivered) Ex-US; M-113A2 version; modernized before delivery; incl command post, mortar-carrier, ambulance and other versions. 
• USA:  9 Cougar APC (9 delivered) ILAV version. 
• USA:  120 M-198 155mm Towed gun (120 delivered) Ex-US; aid. 
• USA: 565 K-6 120mm Mortar; (565 delivered) M-120 version. 

Given that 2nd Division received the existing Iraqi MTLBs [61] and 14th Division has received "Armor training" while all other armor has been accounted for, the Bulgarian MTLBs probably are planned as the APC component for mechanizing those 2 divisions.

The 27 February Khaima had a full page article about the graduation of the 12th batch of M1A1SA "foundation course" students.  This is the 12th and final course for the 9th Armored Division.  The number of trainees were 47 from the 3rd Company, 5-36/9 Armored Battalion. The training lasted for 3 months with 590 total trainees in the entire program - 140 tanks and 12 tank companies as well as 36 tank recovery vehicles. The next stage is the training of a "training cadre" for the Abrams tanks for the future which will include 40 trainees to be trained as trainers.  

This indicates plans for additional M1A1 buys.

The 6 March Khaima had an interview with the Commander of the 8th Division General Hasen Mohammed Mahus.  Key items mentioned included that:  The change from Infantry to Mechanized Infantry increases the war fighting capability of the unit for external defense purposes especially since our border areas are good geographically for mechanized units to operate in.  We have been provided with 470 armored vehicles by the armor directorate of various types, all of these were imported from the US. The troops are undergoing training at Besmaya for their conversion.  Wasit province has been moved from the Central Euphrates Command to the Rafidain Command which has reduced the geographical area that the unit has to cover. 

This confirms the transfer of Wasit to RaOC.  The 470 armored vehicles includes more than just M113 APCs and is the same amount of armor provided to 10th Division when it was mechanized.  Both divisions are still short or do not have tanks.

The 13 March Khaima reported on the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces visit to the Transport and Logistics Command. They discussed the standing up of the fire fighting units and improvements to the capability of the fuel delivery units. Iraq now has enough tank transporters to meet its logistical needs. Each unit of the Transport and Logistics Command consists of a Fuel Truck Battalion, Truck Battalion, Tank Transport Battalion and a Fire Fighting Unit. 

This indicates that the Taji General Transport Regiment has been expanded to a Transport Brigade and that the Corps-level support will include a National Depot [Brigade] and a Transport Brigade.

Additionally, the 1-35/9 Armored Battalion at Rustumiya received its T72 tanks. 

Where are the additional T-72s from?  There have been no reports of additional buys of T-72s by Iraq.  Nine IA battalions have been reported training on T-72s and 5 have been reported equipped but, only 4 battalions worth of T-72s are known to be in the IA’s possession… 

The 20 March Khaima reported that the Rapid Reaction Battalion of the 4th Division completed training on airborne operations in cooperation with Army Aviation Command. 

4th Division has been expected to be the IA’s airborne force due to its extensive airmobile experience and reported paratroop training.  This also probably means the division is probably planning to relocate in or adjacent to New Al Muthanna AB [BIAP] – home of the IqAF Transport Wing.

The new Jazeera Operational Command HQ is reported to be establishing at Rabiyah in the Sinjar District of Ninawa.

Aviation and Air Defense

Mar20:  Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) has updated their arms register as of the end of 2012.   The below list is declared exports to Iraq with deliveries noted where made as of 31 December 2012 [all previously reported – only new data is the numbers of Ingwe ATGW and Stinger SAMs being provided]:

• USA:  18 F-16C Block-50/52 FGA aircraft; F-16C Block-52 or F-16IQ version; incl 6 F-16D; delivery from 2014. 
• USA:  20 AAQ-33 Sniper Aircraft EO system; delivery by 2015. 
• USA:  4 DB-110 Aircraft recce system; for use on F-16 combat aircraft; delivery probably by 2018. 
• USA:  4 AN/APG-68 Combat ac radar AN/APG-68(V)9 version; spares for F-16 combat aircraft. 
• USA:  18 F-16C Block-50/52 FGA aircraft F-16C Block-52 or F-16IQ version; delivery 2018; selected but contract possibly not yet signed. 
• Czech Republic: 24 L-159B Trainer/combat ac; delivery possibly from 2015. 
• Czech Republic 4 L-159B Trainer/combat ac; Ex-Czech; delivery 2013. 
• USA:  24 F-124 Turbofan for 24 L-159B trainer/combat aircraft from Czech Republic. 
• Ukraine: 6 An-32/Cline Transport aircraft; (6 delivered) An-32B version. 
• USA: 6 C-130J-30 Hercules Transport aircraft (3 delivered); delivery 2012-2013. 
• Germany (FRG): 24 EC-135/EC-635 Light helicopter; (24 delivered); armed EC-635 version; ordered via France. 
• South Africa: 300 Ingwe Anti-tank missile; (300 delivered) For EC-635 helicopters. 
• USA: 24 Bell-407 Light helicopter (15 Armed version delivered); option on 26 more; delivery 2012-2013.  
• USA:  1 AN/TPS-77 Air search radar; designation uncertain. 
• USA:  8 Avenger Mobile SAM system; 'ISFF' aid; selected but contract probably not yet signed. 
• USA:  200 FIM-92 Stinger Portable SAM for Avenger SAM systems. 

The Russian deal was not in the SIPRI database since it was suspended prior to the end of 2012.  However: “As far as the signed contracts go that deal with the acquisition of weapons in Russia, they have not been cancelled. However, we have not started executing them yet.  When will the first supply commence?  As soon as the financial issue is resolved. I believe that the first shipments of weapons from Russia to Iraq will start before the summer, as the latest term.  What kind of equipment will it be? Military aircraft were discussed.  No, we are not talking about aircraft so far. It will be helicopters of a specific kind and missile defense batteries.”

There are only a few clear details of the Russian deal in the reporting:

• Deal is for 28-40 Mi-28NE Attack Helicopters and 42-50 Pantsir S1 SAM systems.
• Deal is for 4.2 billion dollars which is more than the worth of the highest numbers of systems reported.
• 4 additional Mi-28NEs were added to replace the initial kickback corruption in the original deal. 
• Now that the renewed deal is signed, deliveries are to start this summer.

The 27 March Khaima points to more diverse air and air defense weapons shopping and training:

• Commander of the Air Defense Command meets with the representatives of French companies at the HQ of the ADC. They discussed the plans for building the Iraqi ADC and the fact finding trips by the technical committees of the ADC to observe the testing of new air defense systems in Europe. The French stated their willingness to train and equip the ADC with French weapons.
• Commander of the Air Force meets with US, Chinese and Pakistani defense representatives.
• US rep, General Martin: discussed training courses.
• Pakistani rep, Mohammed Rashed: discussed training courses in Pakistan for Iraqi officers / pilots.
• Chinese rep head of CATIC: The manufacturer of the JF17 fighter, k8 trainer and UAVs. Iraqi AF commander indicated that they are prepared to test and evaluate aircraft that CATIC offers to Iraq.

Iraqi Navy

Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) has updated their arms register as of the end of 2012.   The below list is declared exports to Iraq with deliveries noted where made as of 31 December 2012 [all previously reported]:

• USA:  9 Swiftships-35 Patrol craft (9 delivered). 
• USA:  3 Swiftships-35 Patrol craft (3 delivered); option on 3 more. 
• USA:  2 AMP-137 OPV (2 delivered). 

Iraqi Ministry of Interior

Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) has updated their arms register as of the end of 2012.   The below list is declared exports to Iraq with deliveries noted where made as of 31 December 2012 [previously reported]:

• USA:  80 ASV-150/M-1117 APC (60 delivered); including 8 command post versions; delivery 2011-2013.  [Federal Police]

Total Mobilization March 2013 

The consolidation of Operational Commands point toward 7 total ISF Corps in Wartime [5 Frontal/2 Reserve] being the basis of the Wartime Army structure.  Additionally, Kurdish elements are not being integrated – instead the KRG is building its own 2 corps army structure.  [ISF planned Wartime Structure appears to reflect late Iran-Iraq War Corps/Army Structure.]

The primary external focus is towards Iran.  Jordan, Turkey, and the GCC are only a threat if they have US support and Iraq cannot win a war with the US.  The reduction of Joint Corps opposite Syria is a reflection of Syria’s reduced conventional threat and the likelihood of the future Syrian Government not being allied with Iran.  Iran becomes the biggest regional threat by default – Iran’s 48 divisions on mobilization, 7 of them mech/armor, is the 800 pound gorilla next door.

Forward defense is Iraq’s only real option.  Too many key areas are close to the Iranian border.  However, Iraq does not currently have the force to successfully defend Iraq against a conventional invasion.  While the ISF is training and re-equipping for external security – it is at least a decade from being ready.  Iran could occupy Iraq in less than 3 weeks at this point.

As depicted on the map, the forward defense planned by the Iraqi Security Forces utilizes the Total Mobilization Concept.  The Department of Border Enforcement provides the forward screen with a mix of Iraqi Federal Police, Emergency Police, and Kurdish Regional Guards providing the primary infantry line.  The Iraqi Army provides the heavy reserve.

The Iraqi Army plans to add significant armor to its force so that it’s mechanized and armor divisions [plus select IA motorized and airmobile] can operate as corps/army/strategic reserve to react to any enemy breakthrough.  Supporting those reserve IA divisions will be Army Aviation Brigades paired with the Iraqi Special Operations Force Brigades as part of the quick reaction forces.

However, all of these forces are not ready for external defense.  Most divisions would be only a speed-bump to the Iranian forces at this point.  To put it into perspective, the 3-phase Iraqi Ministry of Defense plan is:     

• Tactical Independence (2006-2010) – Internal security, effectively done. 
• Operational Independence (2011-2015) – Will not meet the schedule.  The IA needs to be out of internal security operations by then and the FP will not be ready to take over in time.  Also, the FP needs to train and equip for its secondary role as infantry in external defense.
• Strategic Independence (2016-2020) – Will not meet the schedule.  This requires a functional and credible air defense, at least 6 fully equipped heavy IA divisions, and the FP trained/equipped for its secondary role of external security.  The first fighter squadron will not be operational until 2015-2016 and Iraq needs a minimum of 5 squadrons to provide a minimum air defense.  Iraqi officers are talking 2024-2027 for completion of this plan. 

None of the services are on schedule.  The previous associated articles on ISF Structure and Armor Update provide details as to the status of the services and their upgrades.

The ISF is developing but, budget issues and politics continues to delay many key components.  The planned upgrade schedules have slid to 2017-2018 for Phase 2 [Operational Independence] and 2024-2027 for Phase 3 [Strategic Independence]. 

Related:

Iraqi Army Armor Update February 2013  

ISF Structure and Development February 2013  

ISF OOB [Updated monthly]

Divisional OOB as of 28 February 2013

This Iraqi Security Force (ISF) update provides a summary of changes to the ISF during February 2013.  The Iraqi Security Force Order of Battle is updated as of 28 February 2013.

• Arms deals delayed due to Parliament fight over budget.
• Fourth batch of BTR-4s accepted.
• More French and US helicopters?; AAC re-designates 3 squadrons.
• New ISOF Battalion forming?
• 2 PBs delivered; IqN/IqM Brigade organizations; Diver School.
• OPD Brigade forming in Kirkuk.

The Czech and Russian Deals remain suspended.  While reporting claims they are “failed” deals, official reporting from Iraqi, Czech, and Russian Governments call them delayed or suspended due to the Iraqi Budget fight in Parliament.  The Czech deal is for 28 L159 Jet Trainers and an Iraqi refit facility for T72s.  The Russian negotiations covered seven weapons systems [Mi17v5, Mi28NE, BMP-3E, SU-30MK2, MiG29M2, Pantsir and TOR-M2] but, Russian reporting indicates only the contracts for 30 Mi28 Attack Helicopters and 42 Pantsir S1 Short Range SAMs are actually signed and that they can start delivering from existing stocks when payment is received.

Army

On 7 February, representatives of IMoD and Ukrspecexport signed the document confirming the acceptance of another batch of BTR-4 armored personnel carriers. This batch consists of 40 vehicles.  Reporting is that this delivery makes over 200 delivered out of 420 contracted.  While most reporting refers to this as the third delivery – it is actually the fourth.  The third delivery of 94 BTR-4 variants was in December and went largely unreported.  A total of 222 vehicles have been accepted in 4 batches – 26, 62, 94, and now the accepted 40 more.  These BTR-4 variants are being used to mechanize the 5th Mechanized Division.

Aviation

A team from Eurocopter visited the Army Aviation Command where they discussed existing and future contracts.  This indicates that the AAC is planning to exercise the options for additional French helicopters.

The AAC has renumbered some of its squadrons.  The 200th Training Squadron at Habbaniyah operates the Bell 206s.  The 300th Training Squadron at Habbaniyah operates the OH-58s.  22nd Squadron at Habbaniyah now has no helicopters but in few months will operate ARH407s.  Effectively the AAC is establishing an Aviation Training Brigade at Habbaniyah’s AAC College and standing up a second Armed Reconnaissance Squadron.  This indicates the option for more ARH407s is also being exercised.

Iraqi Special Operations Force

A “Special Operations Unit" has been reported operating in Maysan.  This is the first report of an ISOF element operating in RaOC.  While this may be just a detachment from 6th Regional Commando Battalion [Basrah], it could also be the beginning of a dedicated RCB for RaOC.

Navy

The 10th and 11th Swiftship PBs delivered.  The 12th and last in the current contract is to deliver later this year.  There are options for 6 more.

According to the 6 February Khaima the 1st Naval Brigade has been formed:

• 1st Patrol Squadron with Swiftship PBs.
• 2nd Patrol Squadron consisting of the 4 Saettia Patrol Ships.
• 3rd Patrol Squadron which consists of the Iraqi made Al Fao PBs used to send troops to the offshore oil terminals.
• 4th Transport and Logistics Squadron consists of the 2 OSVs and AOR.
• 5th Patrol Squadron with the Chinese made Predator PBs by the naval infantry to board vessels.

The 1st Naval Infantry Brigade has three battalions:

• 1st Marine Battalion defends the Basra and Amaya offshore terminals, including protection of vessels and boarding of ships.
• 2nd Marine Battalion defends all the shore port facilities as well as Umm Qasr and Khor al Zubair towns in collaboration with the other security forces.
• 3rd Marine Battalion acts as a mobile defense placing checkpoints along the roads between Umm Qasr and Khor al Zubair as well as protection for Haj visitors during their journey from Basra to Saudi Arabia.

The numbering of these brigades plus the additional elements, expanding responsibilities [New Al Fao Port] and excess bases indicate additional Naval and Marine Brigades are to be formed.

The 13 February Khaima reported on Navy run courses for divers that will be repeated annually at the Marine School.  This supports the Frogman Squadron which is expected to expand to battalion strength.

Ministry of Interior

A  Sahwa brigade is to be formed into an Oil Police Brigade in Kirkuk under the command of the Tigris Operational Command. 

ISF Planned Structure (Missing or incomplete elements color coded)

The Iraqi Security Forces are still a work in progress.  While they are capable of internal security, the ISF is not capable of a successful external defense against any neighbors.  Iraqi Ministry of Defense (IMoD) continues to officially claim they will meet the 2020 target date for completing external defense upgrades but, unofficial IMoD estimates are 2024-2027.

Joint Command Structure:  Most of the various ISF Services and service headquarters do not direct the combat forces in the field.  The Operational and Area Commands fill the role of Joint Army/Corps commands operating under the National Operations Command.  These headquarters are mostly complete except for a proposed merger of Ninawa and Anbar Operational Commands into Jazeera Operational Command.  All subordinate units to these Joint Operational and Area Commands are trained, equipped, and provided by the service component commands.

Iraqi Army (IA) Ground Forces:  The IA is in the process of converting to external defense.  While all Battalions and Brigades are structurally complete – most combat Battalions/Brigades are planned to convert.  The IA has only 10 Tank Regiments [Battalions] of the 61 needed to fill out the planned 3 Armor and 8 Mechanized Divisions.  Discounting the light APCs, the IA has 35 of 71 planned Mechanized Battalions.  At Division-level the IA is still missing 50 percent of its planned artillery and Engineers plus their logistics support units.  Division Anti-Tank elements are planned but not formed.  The IA Corps-level combat support units and augment units to the FP for external defense have only started forming [Artillery, Mortars, Anti-Aircraft, Anti-Tank, etc]. 

Air Defense Command (ADC):   The IA ADC was only established in 2011.  At this point ADC only has 2 of 4 planned Sector Operations Centers operational, no surface to air missiles, and has only started fielding salvaged anti-aircraft guns.  Iraq has no real air defense.

Army Air Corps (AAC):  The AAC is the rotary-wing force supporting the ground forces.  The AAC is currently composed of 10 Squadrons of a planned 23-24.  Only 1 Combat Aviation Brigade has been reported of 7 planned.   Each Combat Aviation Brigade is to have 1 Scout, 1 Attack, and 1 Transport Squadron.  The AAC College at Habbaniyah includes an Aviation Training Brigade(-).

Iraqi Air Force (IqAF):  The IqAF is still in its infancy - Only 7 of 24-25 Squadrons planned.  Effectively the IqAF is a training, transport, and reconnaissance force with little to no air defense or ground attack capability.  Over the next 2 years the IA is expected to add a Jet Training Squadron and a Fighter Squadron with another Fighter squadron to follow 2 years later.  A minimum of 5 Fighter Squadrons are required for the air defense of Iraq – which means the IqAF is 10-12 years from having a minimum air defense at this rate of fighter purchases.

Iraqi Navy/Marines (IqN/IqM):  The Iraqi Navy and Marines is organized into a Naval Brigade and a Marine Brigade with signs of additional Naval and Marine Brigades being formed.  Probable planned end force is a Naval Division and a Marine Division.

Iraqi General Depot Command (IGDC):  The IGDC provides the Army-/Corps-level logistic support to the Operational Forces and trains/equips the divisional/brigade level IA logistics brigades/battalions.  4 of 6 planned National Depots [Corps Sustainment Brigades] are formed or forming.  [The seventh is provided by the FP.]  At the Army-Level the Taji Joint Base Factory Complex [2 Brigades] provides the Maintenance support – might expand further. 

Iraqi Training and Doctrine Command (ITDC):  ITDC is structurally complete.  Provides training from Basic to Advanced.

Counter Terrorism Service (CTS):  The CTS is the parent service for the Iraqi Special Operations Force.  Normally ISOF is under NOC and has dedicated AAC aviation support from the 32nd Aviation Brigade.  ISOF would provide Commando Brigades to the Corps in wartime for recon and airmobile special operations support.  8-9 of 21 planned combat Battalions are operational – 2 of 7 planned Combat Brigades.

Federal Police (FP):  The FP is absorbing the province paramilitary Emergency Police and reorganizing into 14 Divisions each with 4 FP and 1 administratively attached Emergency Response Brigade.  ERBs are normally under direct command of NOC while the FP Divisions are under the Operational and Area Commands.  While enough EP Brigades have been “nationalized” to provide line forces for 6 FP Divisions, only 4 of 14 planned FP [Motorized Infantry] Divisions have been reported commissioned.  [16 Divisions if the KRG Task Force Police were added.]  Divisional Support Brigades are well under strength in the 4 existing FP Divisions.  The FP also has enough elements to form 2 Security Divisions.  The FP Sustainment Brigade provides the 7th Corps-level logistic support and the FP Divisions provide Infantry forces [augmented by IA FA, AAA, AT and support] in wartime.  The IA provides the heavies and the FP provides the infantry line in the Frontal Corps during an external war.

Department of Border Enforcement (DBE):  Even in peacetime, the DBE focus is on border security.  Most DBE is static security operating out of border forts but there are some motorized and maritime forces.  DBE Regions I, II, and IV are each divisional in strength while seriously short logistics support.  Regions III and V are only a division in strength when combined.  [Of note, Region I is under de facto control of the KRG.]

Oil Police Directorate (OPD) and Facilities Protection Service (FPS):  Organized into 4 OPD and 3 FPS Divisions, these forces are static internal security forces and not under the Operational Commands.  These services are unlikely to be used in external defense.  Structure of these forces and current status has not been reported.

Kurdish Forces:  Effectively an IA Frontal-Army equivalent force.  Still in training and short armor compared to the IA, the Kurdish Regional Guard is a Mountain Infantry Army of 2 forming Corps – 5 active and 2 reserve Division-equivalents.  [The only authorized reserve military in Iraq.]  The 2 Task Force Police Divisions are equivalent to FP and were to become FP Divisions at one time – cadre elements received Carabiniere training at FP Schools in Baghdad.  Iraqi DBE Region I is de facto under Kurdish Regional Government control.  The KRG even operates its own Oil Police and Facilities Protection Service.

The ISF is a work in progress – at least 1, probably 2 decades from completion.

Related:

Iraqi Army Armor Update February 2013

Iraq Order of Battle

Iraqi Army Armor Update February 2013

The problem with this update is that there are few confirmed reports of additional armor buys since the last update.  Most of this update is extrapolation of what will be acquired and what may be contracted but has not been reported.

A factor that most overlook in analyzing the future IA is that they look at the IA in isolation.  To analyze the planned IA force you have to look at all of the service components and their functions.   The IA is just 1 of the services that provide ground forces in event of an external war:

• The Iraq Army provides the heavy armor/mechanized, airborne/airmobile, and fire-support forces.  Currently the IA is 14 divisions of which 3 are designated mechanized and 1 is designated armor despite being 12 tank regiments short.  11 divisions have tracked armor/mechanized battalions indicating plans to become heavy and 1 division has elements designated airborne and airmobile.  These forces and ISOF would be the attack/counterattack forces in an external fight.
• The Department of Border Enforcement provides the fortified forward infantry screen.  The DBE is 5 regions [divisions] however, I Region is de facto Kurdish Region controlled and V Region [Saudi Border] is grossly under strength.   Effectively 3 infantry divisions minus artillery.  Static defense.
• The Federal Police provide infantry forces in wartime.  While the FP is only 4 divisions now – the FP is absorbing the provincial Emergency Police.  Building to 13-14 infantry divisions.  Defensive forces.
• The Iraqi Marines are responsible for the defense of the Al Fao peninsula and coastal/port defense.  While only 2 brigades now – probably growing to an infantry division.  Defensive amphibious force.
• The Counter Terrorism Service [ISOF] is the Special Operations Component.  Only 2 reinforced brigades now but, probably growing to 7 brigades – 1 per corps.  High-end reconnaissance and airmobile counterattack force.

The extra infantry components from the Ministry of Interior mean that the IA will be eventually be skewed towards armor/mechanized forces.  This will not happen fast.  Current estimates are 2024-2027 before the services reach their planned strengths.

Divisional OOB as of 31 January 2013

This Iraqi Security Force (ISF) update provides a summary of changes to the ISF during January 2013.  The Iraqi Security Force Order of Battle is updated as of 31 January 2013. 

• IA Divisional Artillery at 50%; ATGW Bns to be added to divisions;  NiOC and AOC may be merged;  4-5 of the 7 Joint Corps [Operational Commands] have Sustainment Brigades formed or forming; 5th Mechanized Division getting BTR4s; Corps-level artillery starting to form; indications of additional T72s acquire; Weapons continue to be salvaged. 
• Funding for F16s;  Possible purchase of  AH-1Z/UH-1Y; Kut AB completing support structure;  3 ARH407 delivered.   
• New Naval Infantry Brigade established?; Stromboli class AOR to deliver from Egypt.

Army

IMod published an extended version of the weekly Khaima Magazine for New Years.  Significant items concerning the Iraqi Army include:

• The army consists of 14 divisions and is now complete in terms of organizational structure.  [This confirms no fifteenth division commissioned despite press reports to contrary.] 
• The training plans for 2012 were not fulfilled due to the situation along the Syrian border which meant that units meant to train-retrain were instead deployed. The aim is to have one brigade per division in training.
• Three divisions were upgrade from infantry to mechanized in this year [5th, 8th, and 10th].  [IMoD’s definition of mech is different than mine – I also list 7th and 14th Divisions.  By either definition they are short at least 16 tank regiments – 560 tanks.]  
• The 9th Division was upgraded from mechanized to armored division this year. 
• Every division equipped with artillery battalions and just in the last weeks 10 battalions finished their training on the US 155mm artillery. All units now have both heavy artillery battalions as well as light artillery 120mm [mortars].  [This means 2 of the 4 planned field artillery regiments per division have been commissioned.  Note that the additional US howitzers have not been mentioned by DSCA.]  
• All the divisions now have their support structures including logistics and central maintenance factory [Maintenance Battalion], as well as combat engineers and mechanical & electrical engineers.  
• Introducing anti-tank missile battalions, since we are a defensive nation nowadays.
• IMoD studying the possibility of establishing the "Jazira Command" to control the desert / border areas with Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Syria as it’s a very specialized area which needs to synergize the logistics and intelligence sharing. They envisage adding the border guard units to this command. [Rumored plan to merge Anbar and Ninawa Operational Commands confirmed.] 
• IMoD envisages arming the police and national police with equipment similar to the army in future. The plan is to hand over internal security completely to the interior ministry soon. With potential for the army to intervene in internal security only in emergencies in future, and for the interior ministry to support the defense ministry in external crises vice versa.  [As the IA upgrades – older IA equipment will be handed down to MoI.] 
• Tigris Operations Command was created out of the old Diyala Operations Command and includes the 4th Infantry, 5th Mechanized, and 12th Infantry Divisions as well as the Diyala, Salahudin, and Kirkuk police departments.  The corps has put together a "support" brigade.  [This is the fourth corps-level support/sustainment brigade reported formed – 5 if the Federal Police Sustainment Brigade is included.  Two more are probably planned or forming at Tallil and Shaibah.] 
• The 5th Division is being equipped with BTR4s which are armed with 30mm cannon and a missile system. 1 battalion has finished training and the second battalion is training on the BTR4s. 62 vehicles have been assigned so far.   [Either the 5th Mechanized Division is to be light mechanized or only 70% of the BTR4s purchased are to go to 5th.  Either way – the BTR4s are not going to the Commandos as was once planned.] 
• Every infantry brigade has a 120mm mortar battery. 
• Every operations command was also equipped with mortars of various origins. [Beginnings of Corps-level artillery units.] 
• From salvaged equipment the following units were established: 5 artillery battalions of 152mm, 130mm and 122mm guns.  1 rocket battalion of 122mm artillery rockets.  1 rocket battalion of light 107mm rockets.   
• Every division now has a 155mm artillery battalion (either towed or self propelled) - 3 self propelled and 10 towed. 
• Kirkush middle field factory for the repair and maintenance of various classes of vehicles. The unit repairs and overhauls vehicles as well as sends out repair and recovery teams in support of the 5th Mechanized Division. The unit is part of the mechanical and electrical engineers directorate of the army. The factory also repaired 105mm guns (Tank or howitzer?) and has began using the IDN maintenance/part management system which is now used across the defense ministry.   [Part of the Corps-level Support Brigade for TOC.  Only 105mm guns reported are old pack howitzers or the option for 350 M60A3s from the Hellenic Army.]

Khaima Magazine from 16 January included the following items concerning the IA: 

• The 35th Brigade has organized training for tank crews on the T72 which has recently entered service with the 1st armored battalion.  [There are at least 2 T72 Tank Regiments more than reported numbers of T72s in the IA support – which suggests additional T72s have been acquired, possibly from Czech.]  
• The mechanical and electrical engineer’s corps exhibition of the results of the fifth salvage campaign.  290 pieces of armor, artillery, rocket launchers, mortars, anti-aircraft guns were salvaged in this 5th campaign.  18x 57mm S60 guns.  7x HUMVEE fitted with 107mm MRL.  3x personnel carriers fitted with dual cannons.  14x twin cannons fitted to Silverado trucks.  14x DshK machine guns.  24x 60mm mortars.  12x ASP8 recoilless rifles.  100x RPG7.  45x assorted vehicles abandoned on former US bases.  6x light recovery vehicles.  2x heavy recovery vehicles.  2x 122mm BM21 launchers 2x HUMVEES for troop exhibitions salvaged MTLBs from scrap and fitted with 107mm rockets in early 2013, an additional 12 BM21s will be completed more salvage campaigns will continue in 2013 these salvage campaigns not only provide low cost equipment for temporary use for the army, but also help rebuild the technical cadres of the engineers and their experiences. The guns have new barrels and the vehicles new engines and electrics the weapons are as new, but cost much less than buying new equipment. 
• In an interview with commander of the 18/5 Mechanized Brigade the following items were mentioned:  It is an important brigade in Diyala tasked with the rapid interdiction of terrorists. 18/5 Brigade consists of 4 mechanized battalions spread over the roads from baquba to kan'an and baladruz as well as the area reaching to the border with Baghdad operations command. 1st battalion completed their training on BTR4s and the second battalion is now undergoing training at Besmaya.

Aviation

The Ministry of Finance approved loans to the Ministry of Defense in the amount of 1.8 billion dollars to cover the costs of buying F-16 planes to be paid from the budget of the Ministry of Defense for the year 2013.

"Iraq is looking at a possible purchase of 24 AH-1Z helicopters for the Iraqi Army and 6-8 UH-1Y Maritime Utility helicopters for its Navy."

Kut Air Base (Army Aviation Command) will complete its life support components and refurbishments before the end of 2013 including construction and commissioning of warehouses for parts for aircraft and specialized vehicles, as well as fuel storage facilities. VIP areas for officers were also completed, and these are considered the best halls within the army aviation command.

IMod published an extended version of the weekly Khaima Magazine for New Years.  Significant items concerning Iraqi Aviation include:

• Army aviation received 3 ARH407 helicopters from the US aboard a USAF C130, along with spare parts and equipment.  This was confirmed by US Army press release as the sixth batch delivered.  [2-3 per batch.]
• Training on F16s continues in the US and 2 pilots will soon finish their training.  Facilities for the F16s are being built up rapidly on the airbases.
• They are nearing a deal to buy VIP transports for the head of state and prime minister.
• Air Defence Command Southern Operations Command active.
• The ADC infrastructure is being rebuilt completely from scratch.  The committee for purchasing new air defense equipment looked at Russian, French, American, Chinese and Korean air defense systems.  The ADC aims to buy from many countries an ADC system to cover Iraq's airspace at all altitudes as well as a modern command and control system.

Navy

IMod published an extended version of the weekly Khaima Magazine for New Years.  Significant items concerning the Iraqi Navy include:

• In 2012 a ship repair facility was commissioned.
• New boats were received (OSVs and patrol boats). 
• Advanced Simulators for naval training were commissioned. 
• Naval Infantry Brigade established.  [Second IqM Brigade?] 
• Iraq will also receive the naval support ship in Egypt which has been refitted (Stromboli class AOR).
• The ministry of industry and minerals supplied the navy with three Fao class patrol boats which are operational.

 Divisional OOB as of 31 December 2012

This Iraqi Security Force (ISF) update provides a summary of changes to the ISF during December 2012.  The Iraqi Security Force Order of Battle is updated as of 31 December 2012.  Highlights in this update include:  

• 5th Mechanized Division receiving BTR4s. 
• 3 C130Js received; Press conference with IMoD provides some details on Russian Deal; Iraqi Air Defense Command. 
• 2 OSVs delivered to Basrah. 

Army

The 12 December edition of Khaima magazine reported on the 5th Mechanized Division.  This was the first time the 5th was called Mechanized.  The 18/5 Mechanized Brigade is to receive its BTR4s soon.  1-18/5 Mechanized Battalion has completed training on BTR4s and the 2-18/5 Mechanized Battalion is now undergoing BTR4 training.  The division is converting to 1 armored brigade [20/5] and 3 mechanized brigades [18/5, 19/5, and 21/5].  The 20/5 Brigade has 1 armored battalion currently in training.  The source of the 175 tanks needed to equip the 5th Mechanized Division has not been identified.  [35 tanks per battalion/5 battalions.] The 5th Mechanized Division was trained on M113s but is apparently being equipped BTR4s instead.

Aviation

Iraq accepted 3 C130Js in Baghdad on 17 December.  The remaining 3 C130Js on order are to be delivered during 2013.

The 12 December edition of Khaima magazine reported on the Defense Minister meeting with journalists to discuss the Russian Deal:

• ADC has been contracted by the army to fit 23mm and 14.5mm cannons to 4x4 vehicles for convoy protection duties. 
• The Russian deal included two types of aircraft, neither of which the Russians had exported before. One of these is the Mi28NE. 
• The air defense system also has not been exported by Russia and is used only by the Russian military. 
• 4 different systems that Iraq proposed to the Russians and the Russians have yet to approve their sale to Iraq until a country-country agreement is made due to strategic nature of these weapons.
• Iraq was supposed to receive the weapons from Russia from 14th June 2013 but now the deliveries have been delayed due to the political outburst and the new purchasing committee.  

The 26 December edition of Khaima magazine reported on the receipt of 3x C130J medium lift cargo aircraft and the Air Defense Command [ADC].   The ADC was activated on 8 December 2011 consisting of 16 officers and 24 enlisted personnel and one civilian.  In this one year ADC has setup early warning radars, early warning spotters, some air defense artillery batteries, early warning center in the south, and the Central Air Defense Command in Baghdad.  In addition there have been two campaigns to salvage old equipment from the previous army.  The 2013 budget has allocated a very large amount of capital for re equipping the ADC.  The early warning system now covers 90 percent of Iraq's air space.  Iraq is buying air defense missile systems and will not rely on a single source of supply for them.  Only Kirkuk, Taji, Tallil, & Basrah SOCs/ASOC are displayed in the photos accompanying the article.

Navy

On 20 December, 2 Offshore Support Vessels [OSV] were delivered.   The 26 December edition of Khaima magazine included a full page article on these new OSVs.  The OSV crews were trained in the US for 3 months.  The OSVs will support patrol boats in their tasks as well as having a secondary diver launch capability.   

Divisional OOB as of 30 November 2012

This Iraqi Security Force (ISF) update provides a summary of changes to the ISF during November 2012.  The Iraqi Security Force Order of Battle is updated as of 30 November 2012.  “A Passing Advantage – The Kurdish/Iraq Confrontation” was published separately and will not be addressed here. 

Highlights in this update include:  

• KRG forming 2 Joint Corps; KRG ATGW claim.
• RaOC assumes control of Wasit; Russian deal cancelled and to be renegotiated; Additional T72s to be acquired; first M113s for 8th Division; 17th Division to be re-equipped in 2013.
• New Aviation Brigade formed?; ADC completes refurbishment of AAA.
• MoI ERB in Anbar.

Peshmerga

The Kurdish Regional Government appears to be using the excuse of reacting to the Tigris Operational Command [Joint Corps] to form 2 Joint Operational Commands of their own.  The southern OC may or may not be named the Hamrin Operational Command.   Given the planned size of the reorganizing Kurdish Regional Guards and the Kurdish paramilitary Task Force Police, this was probably planned all along.

Kurdish sources claim to have more ATGWs than the Government of Iraq is aware of.  While this is unconfirmed and probably exaggerated, the KRG probably does have more capability than the IA in this category since the IA’s only ground ATGW capability is the Barrier ATGWs purchased with the BTR4s which started delivering 1 year ago. 

Army

Wasit Province has officially been added to the new forming Rafidain Operational Command.  This is the first confirmation of RaOC assuming an operational command of an area.

The Russian arms deal has been cancelled.  Reporting has gone back and forth on this cancellation.  What finally came out is that Iraq intends to renegotiate the deal for a better price and has changed the planned mix of equipment to be bought.

IMoD’s weekly magazine Khaima [21 November] included the following items:

• A training course for T72 tank drivers was opened for the 1-35/9 Battalion.  All known T72s currently in the IA are accounted for in existing units not including the 1-35/9.  This indicates additional T72s are to be acquired.
• 8th Mechanized Division received its first batch of M113 APCs.
• 17th Division’s commander was interviewed. He stated that 2012 to be the year of training and 2013 will be the year of equipping the forces of the 17th Division.  No details provided as to what equipment was to be provided. 

Aviation

Army Aviation Brigade 32 was reported operating in support of FaOC.  If this is not an error in reporting a new squadron, then this is the first AAC Brigade to be reported.

Khaima [21 November] also reported the Air Defense Command completing the refurbishment of 23mm and 57mm Anti-Aircraft Artillery.  No numbers provided.

Ministry of Interior

"A force of the Rapid Intervention Regiment has found in Anbar today 7, Nov a cache of weapons and explosive devices east of Fallujah."  This is the first report of a MoI Emergency Response Brigade or Battalion in Anbar vice provincial SWAT battalions. 

Some of my early thoughts were published in rough form earlier.  My estimate of Kurdish and Iraqi Forces is that neither side is really ready for a stand-up fight.  But it may happen anyway for political reasons or as deployed forces maneuver for position.  If it happens, don't be surprised if it doesn't work out as planned - for either side...

Of interest, the formation of the Tigris Operational Command and the claim of forming 2 Kurdish Operational Commands in response as justification for the confrontation is pure propaganda.  Establishing corps-level commands has been ongoing since the Surge and both sides require these command elements whether they are fighting each other or not.  They or something like them have been projected as planned for over 5 years.  For a casus belli, this is really flimsy.

In 2003, the Kurds had a dominate position but, the US did not want a divided Iraq – policy was to rebuild Iraq to remain the natural geographical roadblock for Iran.  This correlation of forces has not remained static.  The Iraqi Army has re-grown to 14 divisions since then while the Peshmerga was already at peak strength in 2003 and has reduced to 10-11 division-equivalents since then for budget reasons.  This didn’t matter as neither could push while foreign forces prevented operations.  The withdraw of US forces last year was the first opportunity for Iraq and the Kurdish Regional Government to consider the military option to settle the disputed territories.

One problem with all analysis is that both sides do not have experience in conventional war.  The majority of both forces are too young to have participated in anything other than internal security.  Nor have they had sufficient training in conventional war.   Conventional war is not the same as COIN and neither side knows how their troops will react to high intensity conflict.

While the straight numbers of Kurdish and Iraqi forces indicate an Iraqi advantage – the basic numbers are not the whole story.  While Kurdish forces can be concentrated in a confrontation with Iraq – Iraqi forces are still heavily tied down performing internal security.  This is a Kurdish passing advantage as the Iraqi Federal Police is slowly taking over the lead in internal security, freeing up the Iraqi Army for other employment and training.

Iraqi Army Pros and Cons

Neither side is ready.  What we are seeing from the IA is preparatory moves vice short-term conflict moves.  It will be 1-2 years before the IA is ready.  While neither side is currently ready, IA has more resources in the long run than KRG.  The IA has effective numeric parity with the trained reorganized RGBs with its available force at this time.

That is not the full story – the IA only started training on combined arms a year ago.  They are still short Artillery and will have coordination and supply issues due to lack of experience.  This confrontation is not the same as counter-insurgency operations.

The IA also needs to train on new equipment.  This is especially true of the 12th Division in Kirkuk – it may be politically dependable but, it is too green and only recently equipped with some armor.  Only the IA 9th Armor Division is really ready for this type of fight - the rest are still shaking-down on new equipment and only started training in conventional combined arms during the last year.

While the 12th Division in Kirkuk is politically dependable - Using 12th IA Division as point is a mistake.  This is the same former Strategic Infrastructure Battalions that had to be re-blued/re-greened.  It is the youngest, least capable/professional div in the IA - which makes giving them armor unwise.  Given the limited time, the 12th has had armor and the limited hand-me-down armor only received in the last 2 months – they are likely to be combat ineffective until they have completed a real training shakedown – probably a year.

There is a trust issue with several IA divisions in a confrontation with the KRG.  Kurds serving in the IA tend to be concentrated in 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Divisions – all in disputed zones.  The IA needs to shift forces in the north that they cannot trust verses the KRG to southern locations, while shifting forces the GoI can trust against the KRG to replace them.  That takes time.

The IA has only limited number of forces available because most of the Army is still needed for internal security - this will change with time.  As the Federal Police expands and takes over internal security in various locations, the IA will have more forces freed up for training and for deployment - this is the delay.  The FP is not expanding fast enough, but this will eventually allow the IA to concentrate.

The IA also need more training time on the new equipment and needs more heavy weapons.  Primarily needs Artillery verses the KRG, Artillery is the biggest shortage.  Most of the other systems that the IA is short of are not essential in a fight against the KRG.

Additional time to fully set up sustainment is needed for the IA.  Sustainment is an issue for both forces.

While the IA/IqAF has the air power advantage – it is insufficient to be more than a localized advantage.   Given more training time and additional deliveries [especially munitions] – this will change. These may be the reasons PM Maliki is talking a deal where IA and KRG forces are partnered in the disputed zones.  Prime Minister Maliki is talking joint patrols in the disputed zone - Smart move.  This buys time to shift and upgrade forces.  Looks like a compromise but, has the effect of pinning [corseting] most of the Regional Guards Brigades to an equal force of IA.  In any KRG/GoI conflict, this would reduce the KRG flexibility - thus allowing the IA to move additional forces in and defeat the KRG in detail.  Also, it would draw most of the RGBs into more favorable terrain for the IA.  Again, this needs time to set up.

PM Maliki appears to want to move hard but, the IA is not ready.  The limited numbers of new equipment procured haven't had enough personnel training time to be effective combined arms formations.  The IA is not ready yet.  1-2 years minimum to get truly functional trained, equipped, and sustainable with the new equipment.

Then there is the International fall-out.  Iraq can ill afford the likely results of even a victorious war with the KRG.  The reaction would probably include an international arms embargo against Iraq - Not to mention UN peacekeepers deciding the actual border.  Since Iraq has no air defense and limited heavy weapons, such a result would keep Iraq weak and its government very shaky.

Kurdish Regional Guards Pros and Cons

While the KRG is still not ready, they are in better shape vis-a-vie the IA at this time than they will be in the future.  Unlike the IA, almost all of the Kurdish forces are available for a conflict.  16 of a planned 20 Regional Guards Brigades have been re-organized and trained/equipped for conventional conflict.  The 2 KRG mechanized Brigades and 2 SOF Brigades are already functional although the armor is obsolete.  The Zerevani has reorganized into 2 divisions and received enough Carabinarie training to be effective.  The I DBE Region [Division] is also Kurdish manned and significant elements of 2nd, 3rd, and 4th IA Divisions will probably join the KRG in a fight.

The RGBs are actually matching conventional training timelines with the IA - retraining/reorganizing as many RGBs as the IA in the same timeframe.  16 of 20 RGBs have been retrained and reorganized.  4 more are starting training but, this program only started a little more than a year ago.  Most of the current generation of Peshmerga [like the IA] has little or no conventional combat experience.  Their problem is they have a lower final end-strength and less access to heavy weapons.  The IA will surpass them in 1-2 years.

The KRG has the advantage in logistics - interior shorter lines.  Without more effective air strength than they have available - the IA/IqAF has no realistic way of neutralizing this KRGs advantage.  But, to maintain it, the KRG needs Turkish or Iranian backing for any resupply when they run out of ammo.

Another problem is that the Kurds have not historically demonstrated an ability to fight in the plains. All the disputed areas are in the plains.  They are an infantry force that has not been able to defeat Iraqi armor advantage in the past.  However, the current IA does not have so much armor this time and the KRG has been reported acquiring ATGWs that might be sufficient to neutralize that advantage for now. 

Conclusion

From the GoI’s position this is IA/GoI political and battlefield prep for the future – it will be 1-2 years minimum before the IA is ready for a real fight.  Any fight before the IA is ready, could be very iffy for the GoI.  If the fight starts this year - the KRG has a good chance of winning against the IA.

From the KRG’s standpoint, this may be the last opportunity to secure the disputed zone and try for independence.  The Kurds have the current force advantage but, that will not last.  The KRG's current problem is Iran and Turkey – neither wants an independent Kurdistan.  Without their concurrence the KRG would be fighting a loosing battle.

Both sides are operating from a questionable military position as they cannot be sure of their forces...

Divisional OOB as of 31 October 2012 

This Iraqi Security Force (ISF) update provides a summary of changes to the ISF during October 2012.  The Iraqi Security Force Order of Battle is updated as of 31 October 2012.  Two speculative maps were published under “ISF Speculation.”  The Russian and Czech arms purchases [and US M88s plus Serbian Artillery] were addressed separately in “Iraqi Arms Purchases October 2012”.    These topics will not be addressed here.  Air and Naval Bases have been added to the ISF OOB map.

Highlights in this update include:  

• Further arms purchases and proposals; Joint US/Iraqi Training Exercise planned; TOC operational and adds Salahaddin; 8th Division re-designated mechanized; Elements of 17th Division still under BOC;  Airmobile Brigade in 4th Division; 12th Division mechanizing?
• Second order of F16s signed; Sixth An-32 delivered; AS565 offered for AAC Maritime support; 3 C-130Js deliver this year – 3 more by May 2013; 4 possible AAC FOBs in western Anbar?; New AAC squadron identified; Avenger and I-Hawk donated to Iraq.
• Continued delays in Federal Police sustainment facility.

Army

There were no new details released concerning the Russian Arms Deal but, there were other arms deals and potential deals mentioned in the later half of October:   

• "Defence ministers also discussed possible delivery of new small arms from the Ceska Zbrojovka Uhersky Brod to Iraq and Czech offer to modernise T-72 tanks of Iraqi Armed Forces." 
• "Iraqi representatives are also negotiating about establishing a service and training centre for gun servicing in Iraq, Skrabal said." 
• An undetermined number of additional ILAVs.  "BAE Systems Land and Armaments in York, PA receives a $73.8 million firm-fixed-price umbrella contract, which allows Foreign Military Sales clients to buy International Light Armored Vehicles. US Army TACOM has confirmed to use that this 1st order is from Iraq, Uganda, and Burundi.  Work location will be determined with each order, with an estimated completion date of Sept. 27, 2015. " 
• Six M1A1 tanks indicating further Iraqi acquisitions of M1A1s intended.  "General Dynamics Land Systems in Sterling Heights, MI receives a $9.5 million firm-fixed-price contract “for the services necessary to rebuild six M1A1 tanks in support of Foreign Military Sales.” US Army TACOM has confirmed to us that these are for Iraq."  Of note, these are the first rebuilt M1A1s for Iraq and only the second time that used US M1A1s have been exported from US Army stocks – the first was 200 for Morocco.  The US Army has approximately 2,000 older Abrams in storage that they cannot afford to rebuild/upgrade and is looking for ways to keep the refurbishment line open for the next 5 years.  Apparently, the Pentagon has decided to donate older tanks with the recipients paying for the refurbishment and thus keeping the line operational.   
• The  SIGIR Oct 2012 Report mentioned an Iraqi Letter of Request for 30 Stryker CBRN vehicles and $40 million of 120mm tank ammo.  Additionally, Iraq is inquiring into Bradley ICVs or Stryker APCs.   

IMoD’s weekly Khaima Magazine [25 October] mentioned a planned joint US/Iraqi training exercise to be carried out at Besmaya.  This is the second such joint exercise to be carried out since the withdrawal of US forces and more such exercises are planned for the future.

The Tigris Operations Command has conducted its first operations and has officially added the Salahaddin province to its area.

Khaima Magazine [10 October] officially called the 8th Division a Mechanized Infantry Division for the first time.  This indicates that the division received enough M113s to be redesignated by the IA.  There are no reports of tanks in the 8th.

Elements of 17th Division are still operating under Baghdad Operational Command.  This division is shifting into Babil province under FaOC.

According to a CSIS report [pg70], the International Institute for Strategic Studies lists an IA Infantry Division as including an Airmobile Brigade in its 2012 issue.  The division description fits 4th Division and a battalion of the 16/4 Brigade has been called a "paratroop bn." 

12th Division is apparently gaining either a Tank Brigade or 2 Mechanized Brigades.  Elements of 47/12 Brigade have been reported receiving T55 and Type 69 tanks [3rd Battalion].  1-47/12 Battalion had a graduation parade at K1 where it was said they were trained on repairing tanks.  A photo from another 12th Division Kirkuk parade included T72s and BMP1s.  This means 12th has gotten at least 3 and up to 6 battalions of mech/armor: 1 T55/Type59, 1 T72, and 1-4 BMP1 Battalions.  Either an Armor Brigade or 2 Mech Brigades depending on the number/distribution of BMP1s and tanks. 

This also means that the armor left that 14th Division’s 50/14 and 53/14 Brigades could have been training on earlier this year is BTR4s as all other armor except the delivered/delivering BTR4s, EE9s, and BTR80s is accounted for.  There are not enough EE9s and BTR80s to equip 2 brigades.

Aviation

Iraq finally signed the contract for the second order of 18 F16s.  The new contract is reported as identical to the first except that the deliveries are to be concluded in 2018.  Iraq is also talking with U.S. officials about buying air defense systems and Apache helicopters.  Initial F16 base was changed in late September to Balad vice Al Asad according to SIGIR.

The sixth An32 arrived in Iraq.  There have been no reports of Iraq exercising the option for 4 more.

The head of the AAC met with a delegation from Eurocopter who are offering the AS565 helicopter to be operated by the AAC in support of the Iraqi Navy.

Deliveries of C-130Js start this year.  Khaima Magazine [10 October] says that 3 are to deliver by end-year.  Other sources provide planned dates of production as August 12 [test flew August 16], October 10, October 23, March 14 [2013], May 22, and April 11.  Delivery in Iraq to follow after acceptance.

The October 2012 SIGIR Report mentioned ongoing facilities enhancements for 7th Division at H3, Nukhaybe, Akashat, and Qasr Amij.  Two of these sites are probable planned AAc helicopter forward operating bases, indicating that all 4 of these sites in western Anbar may be future AAC FOBs.

The 25 October Khaima Magazine mentioned a new Squadron with Mi-171s.  AAC flew sorties to protect the buses taking pilgrims to the haj in Saudi Arabia. 85th Squadron based out of Basrah flew the armed sorties (picture of Mi171 over ministry of transport buses).

Additional items mentioned were:

• The Air Defense Command opened its technical training college.
• In addition to the F16s, GoI made a request for Apache Helicopters and Air Defence Systems including the Patriot. 
• Iraq and the US's disagreements over the supply of air defense systems is because the US supplied Iraq with Hawk and Avenger systems, but these are obsolete and do not meet Iraq's true needs. Iraq rejected them initially, but the US donated the systems to Iraq for free and they were accepted. 
• Iraq is developing its air defenses on a principle of buying the short range systems first followed by the medium and long range air defense systems. Iraq is now on its way to sign for the supply of two types of long range air defense systems. 
• WRT to the US reaction to Iraq's Russian weapons purchases. IMoD said that the reaction to the purchases was by the media only and Iraq's relations with the US are not adversely affected by these contracts. 

Ministry of Interior

The October 2012 SIGIR Report  mentioned continuing delays in facilities for the Federal Police Sustainment Brigade.

Comments

I don’t normally provide an opinion on IMoD procurement policy in the monthly update.  I’m making an exception this time.

The IMoD’s bottom-up practice of acquiring weapons is a legacy of how the ISF was first rebuilt.  It made sense when they were building a counter-insurgency force as the operational forces are infantry centric and COIN is primarily small unit actions.  This is not true when you are building a force for external defense – the priorities change.  Tanks are not much use for COIN but essential to combined arms.  APCs are very useful for COIN but truck mounted infantry can be used to support armor in combined arms.  ATGWs are near useless for COIN but essential to each line battalion in external defense – especially given the amount of armor in the neighboring countries.

The problem is that IMoD is still building to the old COIN priorities and has not shifted to external defense despite claiming to.  Bottom up development is the second worst way to upgrade to external defense – the worst is what happened in 2008-2009 during the budget crunch when little was changed.  Iraq did not learn from the Unit Set Fielding program about fully equipping/upgrading entire brigades with all needed weapons.  IA doesn’t need more APCs at this point – they need field artillery, ATGW, and tanks.

Same for Air Defense, building from the bottom up is the least efficient method from an IADS development, operational, and training perspective.  Instead of 42 Pantsir-S1s, Iraq should have bought equal numbers of both Pantsir-S1 and S300s with supporting radars/AAA to build 4 fully functional Air Defense Battalions.  Until you have all the components, you can’t train as a combined force.  You are not functional until all components are available and trained on as combined arms. 

The IMoD COIN Legacy-method of buying weapons is delaying full mission capabilities for external defense.  Buying Division Sets of all needed systems and converting part of the force provides trained cadre and allows training in combined arms forces that become operational as they get the new equipment because they have already trained on it - Thus providing for training in parallel to acquisition vice after acquisition.  Under the current procurement policies, the IA is adding years to its training and development.  Of note, MoI is worse – at least 7-8 years behind the IA in development of the FP/DBE.

Iraqi Air Bases and Projected SAM Sites [click to enlarge]

First reports are always wrong.  The initial reports were of $4.2 billion in Russian arms buys with 42 Pantsir-S1 units and 30 Mi-28NE helicopters.  That led to the following 3 possibilities:

1. A big rip-off.
2. More equipment being bought but not reported.
3. Lower price than reported.

The $4.2 billion reported price tag comes from Russian press and was based on Iraq buying everything that was on the table – they didn’t.  PM Maliki has denied Russian fighter buys:  "we are buying defensive weapons only, air defence equipment and helicopters for anti-terrorist use, not sukhois or migs."  There had been previous reports of negotiations for both fighter types.  Iraq also rejected T90 tanks – apparently the reports of the Russian Army rejecting them, India’s issues with the fire-control system overheating, and a price tag higher than M1A1s convinced them to go elsewhere for tanks. 

[Comment:  There are no defensive or offensive weapons.  Defense and offense are employment options for all weapons.  That being said, the common perceptions are that armor is offensive.]

Iraq is reported to be buying additional long-range radars as part of the package and is rumored to be negotiating for SA20 [S300] SAMs.  The 30 Mi-28s [1 Attack Sq-probably to be based at Taji] are reported to be $1 billion with the price for the Pantsir-S1s and additional air defense items is reported to be $2.3 billion according to Iraqi sources.  There is also a surcharge for rapid delivery involved in those prices.

At first glance the Pantsir-S1 is a rip-off.  The Pantsir-S1 is a cheaper wheeled version of the SA19 which is a failure in its originally planned role as a regimental air defense system because of susceptibility to jamming.  However, it is still used for cruise-missile defense of SA20 sites because its communications/radars are compatible and cruise-missiles do not normally carry jammers.  This indicates that the Pantsir-S1s and additional electronics/radar systems are the first portion of an air defense system that includes SA20.

42 Pantsir-S1s is 7 batteries of 6 firing units each in Russian structure indicating 7 initial planned Air Defense Battalions composed of 1 Battery of Pantsir-S1, 1 battery of SA20, and 1-2 batteries of anti-aircraft guns.  Based on the locations of the 4 known Iraqi Sector Operations Commands, existing air bases, and the gaps between those SOC locations – a projection of where these systems probably will be located can be made.  It should be noted that only the 4 identified SOCs [Kirkuk, Taji, Al Asad, and Tallil] are high probability while the other 3 locations are estimates.  [See map]  Eventually, these battalions will probably expand into Air Defense Brigades.  The IA Air Defense Command could be the fifteenth IA division repeatedly mentioned in Iraqi press given this rapid expansion and the 4 brigade initial structure.

[Note:  Some countries use 4 firing units per battery vice 6.  If that is the case, the other 3 batteries not illustrated on the map would probably be Basrah, Rutbah, and NAMAB.] 

Likewise, at first glance, the $1 billion dollar price for the 28 Czech L159s appears excessive – especially since previous reports were that they were negotiating for used aircraft.  However, only 4 of the L159s are used and to be delivered in 7 months as trainers.  The additional 24 L159s are new-building two-seat L159BQ trainer/attack aircraft modified to Iraqi specifications to deliver 2014-2016.  This Training/Lt Attack Squadron will probably be based at Tikrit.

Also, overlooked by most reporting but mentioned on Iraqi TV, the Czech deal includes establishing an Iraqi Armor rework/upgrade facility for T72 tanks.  [At Taji?]  This is more important than the aircraft deal and accounts for much of the price.  An upgrade facility in Iraq for T72s means that the Iraqis are probably planning on buying large numbers of used T72s and [like the Russian Army] are going to use upgraded T72s as a large part of their tank force vice buying new T90s.  The most likely sources for used T72s include the Ukraine and Poland - Russia is retaining its T72s and upgrading them thus is unlikely to have spares available to sell.

Iraq has ordered an additional 8 M88 armored recovery vehicles for the Iraqi Army through US FMS.  This is the prime recovery vehicle for M1A1 [and similar western] tanks and is usually fielded at 2 per IA Tank Regiment [35 tanks].  While the IA has not reported to have exercised its option to buy 140 more M1A1s and has not been reported to buy any similar tanks [Korean K1?], this indicates a new tank buy is in the works.

Also mentioned in Al Sumeria news is a delivery of “artillery” from Serbia in the next 2 months.  This is likely to be 120mm mortars but, could include Plamen Multiple Rocket Launchers that have been rumored to have been bought by Iraq for the last 2 years.

When reading press reports of arms buys, you should:  always remember that the first reports are always inaccurate, the reporter is likely to leave out or not know key details, and that exaggeration of the price is the norm [especially in Russian press].

Related:  Iraqi Security Force Order of Battle [Updated monthly]

IA Moves? September 2012

Total Force Mobilization September 2012

The above graphics are update speculation to July’s ISF Total Force Mobilization.  Some of it is already happening and some is RUMINT.  Consider this to be an open forum for speculating on ISF future changes.

Divisional OOB as of 30 September 2012 

This Iraqi Security Force (ISF) update provides a summary of changes to the ISF during September 2012.  The Iraqi Security Force Order of Battle is updated as of 30 September 2012.

Two different OOB maps are provided and a survey of comments will decide which remains for future updates.

Changes have been made to pages 2-5 to list the Iraqi Army Divisions by current type vice planned.  [Surprisingly, 75 percent chose Current type vice organizing by Operational Commands or regionally - The biggest gripe when I re-organized last year was that I was not organizing by corps/regional areas.] 

• Page 2 Armor:  Divisions with 2 or more Armor Brigades.  9th Armored Division.
• Page 3 Mechanized:  Divisions with 2 or more Mechanized/Armored Brigades but, no more than 1 Armored Brigade.  5th, 7th, 8th, 10th, and 14th Mechanized Divisions.
• Page 4 Motorized:  Divisions with 2 or more Motorized/Mechanized/Armored Brigades but, no more than 1 Armored or Mechanized Brigade.  2nd, 3rd, and 6th Motorized Divisions.
• Page 5 Infantry:  Divisions with 3 or 4 Infantry Brigades.  1st, 4th, 11th, 12th, and 17th Infantry Divisions.

Highlights in this update include:  

• KRG 6th Regional Guards Cavalry Brigade. 
• TOC/RaOC not operational; 15 IA Divisions still claimed; 10th Division mechanized with M113s; Artillery update;  Third BTR4 shipment planned for end-year; T72s finally go to 3-15/12 Tank Regiment. 
• First IqAF C130J test flight; First Armed Bell 407s delivered; First 2 F16s scheduled for September 2014 delivery; Russian, Czech, and Korean aircraft buys rumored but not reported signed.

Peshmerga

[A late entry from 19 July 2012 reporting on a new KRG brigade.]

"The 6th Cavalry Brigade is a result of the unification of Unit 70 of the Peshmerga Forces General Command (which was loyal to the PUK) and Unit 80 of the Revolutionary Army Command (loyal to the KDP). At the headquarters of the unified brigade in Chwarqurna, you would not be able to tell what Peshmerga was affiliated with Unit 70 or Unit 80 because they all wear the same uniform."

Cavalry normally means mounted troops.  However, it is undetermined what mounts this Regional Guards Brigade uses – horses, trucks, or APCs?  Horse mounted troops cannot be discounted given the terrain in that area.

Army

While Tigris Operational Command and Rafidain Operational Commands may have been ordered formed, both areas are being covered by the IA Divisions when it comes to admin matters.  This indicates that neither of these commands is actually operational.

Iraqi press reporting continues to claim there are 15 Iraqi Army Divisions yet there are no reports of what this additional Division is called.  The only confirmed IA Divisions are the 1st-12th, 14th, and 17th. 

The 10th Division was referred to as a "mechanized division” for the first time when its Commander opened a new communications center.  In a follow up report, the 10th Division has received 459 M113 variants.  Reportedly, 9 battalions of the 10th Division have been rotated through specialist training at Besmaya for the M113s and additional training will continue until the end of the year.  This indicates an increased priority for 10th Division.  If the M113 Family of Vehicles ratio is same as the overall mix in the 1,026 being provided [618 APCs out of 1,026], then 7 battalions of M113 APCs are in this division vice the previously indicated 3-4.  The additional 2 battalions mentioned are probably cargo carrier variants for the Brigade Support Battalions or M1064 Mortar carriers for the Brigade Mortar Battalions.  The 10th Division only has 1 Tank Regiment – it is still short 4 Tank Regiments [140 tanks].  This distribution also means that the “armor” training being received by the adjacent 14th Division is probably not on M113s since there are not enough M113s to go around.

IMoD’s Khaima Magazine provided an update on IA Artillery. 

• The first 5 artillery Battalions [FARs] were formed in 2011 and spread over the 1st, 3rd, 4th, 11th, and 17th Divisions.
• A 122mm Artillery Rocket Battalion [BM21] is under the "Artillery Command". 
• 2x 107mm Artillery Rocket Batteries [Type 63] were issued to 5th and 12th Divisions. 
• 144 "US" artillery units were handed over to the operational combat units after completion of all their training. Also 112 Oshkosh artillery tractors were handed over to the operational units.  The 2nd, 5th, 6th, 7th, 9th, 10th, 12th, and 14th Divisions received those artillery pieces.   A single artillery battalion of 3 batteries [6 guns each] per division. 
• According to the article each brigade should have an artillery battalion of 3 batteries when arming is complete.  [72 howitzers/MRLs per division.]
• 15 heavy artillery battalions in total are operational in the army, one of which remains with the "artillery command" and 14 for the 14 army divisions. [25 percent of planned for IA divisions.]
• 55 light artillery batteries were trained and equipped and spread over all the IA Brigades at the rate of 1 battery per brigade.  [120mm Mortars, only 33 percent of planned for IA brigades.]
• An additional ~100 pieces of salvaged pieces will join the artillery units by next year [5-6 additional FARs].  

Since it is known which divisional FARs are US 155mm [8] and that there are 15 total artillery Battalions [Regiments], which means salvaged FA is 7 FAR at 18 tubes each.  24 M109, 120 M198, 18 BM21M, 12 Type 63, and 96 other salvaged howitzers. [Salvaged howitzers estimated as 12 GHN45, 54 Type 83, 18 M46, and 12 D30 based on photos and Army Day parades.]

The second shipment of BTR4s has finally shipped.  No explanation for delay.  "Replying to the question about the dates of acceptance of the third batch of the BTR-4s, Vadim Kozhevnikov said that that shipment of 94 vehicles is planned to be carried out late in 2012."  [I’ve heard that before.]

The 3-15/12 Tank Regiment finally got its hand-me-down T72s.  Despite the hyperventilating press, this upgrade has been in the works for over 2 years.

Aviation

Iraq’s First Super Hercules Takes to the Skies. 

"MARIETTA, Ga., Sept. 05, 2012 – The first of six C-130J Super Hercules for the Iraqi Air Force recently completed its first flight here. The Iraqi Air Force intends to use the C-130J for intra-theater support of its troops and humanitarian relief operations in various locations. These new transport aircraft will provide Iraq with the ability to operate seamlessly with U.S., NATO and coalition forces. The first C-130J for Iraq is scheduled for delivery later this year." 

The first batch of Armed Bell 407s were delivered to Taji.  They have already participated in a live-fire exercise. 

Despite political claims to the contrary: 

"The network quoted Iraqi media government Air Force Commander, Gen. pilot Anwar Hama Amin, as saying that any delay in the schedule of the arrival of aircraft F-16 does not exist, though the rumors about it incorrectly.  He added that the first installment, which includes two aircraft will arrive to Iraq in September/September 2014, and in accordance with the agreement signed between the two countries.  The Secretary stated that the second installment, and includes 4 aircraft, will reach the end of March/March 2015, while access will be completed all contracted aircraft, and the 18 aircraft, by the end of 2015 or beginning of 2016." 

Politicians, including PM Maliki have been repeatedly claiming a delivery starting in 2013 despite the contract specifying a 2014-2016 delivery as a way to distract from their own delays in purchasing these aircraft.  When they don’t have the aircraft in 2013, they will claim it is the US’ fault and not their delays in contracting. 

"Media sources quoted Defense Minister Saadoun al-Dulaimi, will visit Russia early next month to put the final touches to the military contracts valued at $ 5 billion. And the signing of these contracts will be during a visit to Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki to Moscow on the tenth of October next, noting that Maliki will meet in his senior Russian officials, and possibly file search Syrian crisis. The source indicated that «military contracts will include Sukhoi and MiG aircraft and helicopters Mi Russian in addition to military equipment." 

Rumors and speculation are all over the place.  What is clear is that the contracts are not yet signed.  Most of the rumors also indicate a mix of SAMs, Fighters, Helicopters, and armor.  There are also rumors of both Korean T50 and Czech L159 buys going through as well.

Brigade OOB as of 31 August 2012 

This Iraqi Security Force (ISF) update provides a summary of changes to the ISF during August 2012.  The Iraqi Security Force Order of Battle is updated as of 31 August 2012.

Highlights in this update include:   

• IA/KRG confrontation remains political only. 
• New Operational Command?; 2 new IA Divisions?; 1-16/4 Paratroop Battalion?; Divisions relocating from Baghdad?; Highlights from Khaima Magazine. 
• No contract with the Russians.

Peshmerga

"Peshmerga and Iraqi Army agree to withdraw all the forces from Zummar in Mosul."  

The confrontation between the Iraqi Army and the Kurdish Regional Guards in the disputed zone has not lead to any actual fighting and has been more of a political propaganda dispute than anything.

Army

"Security within South Central and South East regions will be boosted by the formation of the Rafidain Operations Command (RaOC) set for 20 August. Much like the Tigris and Mid-Euphrates Operations Commands, the RaOC will be another multi-operations command with responsibility for security in the provinces of Dhi Qar, Maysan, Muthanna and Wasit." 

This is single source unconfirmed reporting.  While it makes sense and fits with the pattern of consolidating the number of Operational Commands, there have been no reports of activity and no official announcements like there were for the Tigris OC and the Furat Awsat OC.  If this command does form, then it is a strong indicator that at least 2 of the 3 indicated movements of IA Divisions to the south are to execute in the near future – why expand the number of corps-level commands unless you are going to have multiple divisions to command in those areas?  Those three movements are 11th Division to Wasit, 7th Division to Maysan, and 17th Division to Babil.

The Tigris Operational command is to get 2 new IA Divisions for Kirkuk/Diyala.  These Divisions are to work with 5th and 12th Divisions.  Unless this is a mistake and they are FP, this sounds like the "mountainous force" mentioned in spring - 15th and 16th Mountain Divisions.  The cadre was probably from Baghdad which would explain the reports of elements of 17th IA Division in Kirkuk.  However, the mistranslation of 5th and 12th Divisions as “battalions” raises the question as to how large a force – are they divisions or something smaller?

Also, there was no mention of 4th Division in TOC which could mean they are being moved from TOC – possibly to New Al Muthanna AB [Baghdad] if the report of Paratroops in the 16/4 Brigade is correct.  Airborne is a strategic reserve asset and should be located with the IqAF transport base.

The “Commander of the Army's 22nd Regiment, the 6th Division, and three of his soldiers killed and four other soldiers wounded in an armed clash on Tuesday afternoon, Aug. 28, with gunmen south of Tikrit.  Military source told NINA that gunmen attacked a military checkpoint in Niba'e area, 50 km north of Baghdad, and that the clashes lasted for some time resulted in the killing of the regiment commander, who is at the rank of colonel, and three of his soldiers, as well as wounding four other soldiers." 

The 22/6 Brigade was in 4th Division’s area.  It is possible the 6th Division is relocating north from Baghdad.  If that is the case, at least 6 IA Divisions are showing signs of relocation.

Some of the highlights from IMoD’s Khaima magazine included: 

• The IA brought renovated 120 vehicles and 72 anti-aircraft guns.
• Armor Directorate celebrated the graduation of the second group from the advanced gunnery course "master gunner" modeled on the US-army "master-gunner" course. The course was undertaken on the M1A1SA tanks and 34 graduated the 6 month course. 
• 6-37/9 Tank Regiment is still operating T72s.  [6-37/9 is 1 of 3 M1A1 trained but not equipped battalions in the IA.  Also, with the confirmation of T72s remaining in 37/9 Brigade, the only remaining unidentified IA brigade with tanks is the T72 Regiment in 10th Division.] 
• The 35/9 Brigade overhauled and brought back into service the R123 communications equipment for the MTLB, as well as rebuilding the auto loading system for the T72 tanks to improve their operation and reliability.   [It is odd that 35/9 was working on MTLB equip – 34/9 had the MTLBs. Preparing them for transfer to another unit?  The denied Bulgarian deal for 500 MTLBs may still be on.]

Aviation

While IMoD was in Russia shopping for Air Defense equipment – no contracts announced and the hype from the Russian side has dried up, which indicates no Russian deal.   

Brigade OOB as of 31 July 2012

This Iraqi Security Force (ISF) update provides a summary of changes to the ISF during July 2012.  The Iraqi Security Force Order of Battle is updated as of 31 July 2012.   The July 2012 update was separately updated to reflect the GoI denial of Bulgarian/Polish arms deals.  The “ISF Total Force Mobilization Update July 2012” was published reflecting the apparent changes in the command structure and planned force composition.  These articles will not be addressed here.

Highlights in this update include:   

• Claims of KRG arms deals by unknown officials; Rumors of UH-1s or AH-64s for the KRG not supported – US Consulate Aviation assets from Kirkuk relocating to Irbil with close of Kirkuk. 
• Possible Russian deal, 15 IA Divisions?; One Avenger Battery for IA;  Howitzer update; counter-battery radar possible sale; Consolidating operational commands; IA deployment to Syrian border results in face off with KRG troops.
• Recon pods for IqAF F16s; An-32 delivery. 
• Al Basrah delivering to IqN. 
• First report of Samarra 4th Emergency Battalion.

Peshmerga

While Iraqi officials keep claiming major arms deals [including “heavy weapons”] by the KRG, no real details or officials willing to be named have appeared.  These anonymous officials also do not explain how delivery of heavy weapons is to be made – It is unlikely that Iran, Turkey, Syria or Iraq would allow tanks to be delivered to the KRG through their territory.  Infantry weapons and other lighter systems could be flown in.

Despite claims of UH-1s and Apache helicopters being sold or provided to the KRG by the US Government – no such deal has occurred.  All the recent photos and video provided to support those claims have been of aircraft in US State Department colors and markings – part of the US Consulate Irbil.  The increase in US aviation assets in Irbil is a result of the ongoing closure of the US Kirkuk Facilities and the relocation of those US aircraft to Irbil.  Under US Law, any military sale to the KRG would require US Congressional notification in advance.  Civil aircraft [unarmed] could be sold to the KRG without that notice.

Army

While the Government of Iraq denies arms deals with Bulgaria or Poland, it does reference Russian negotiations.  The claims so far are of air defense equipment in negotiation – however, there are no actual contracts.  The Iraqi Government had been reported allocating additional funds for air defense but, no details on what was to be bought.  This is touted as the largest Russian-Iraqi arms deal in 30 years.  That would not be difficult since it would be the first legal Iraqi direct purchase of Russian arms since the collapse of the Soviet Union.  [The Mi-17/171s were bought through US FMS.]  Also of note are the repeated mentions of 15 IA Divisions.  There have been no new IA Divisions announced.  The possibilities include redesignating/expanding ISOF,  the Presidential Brigades, the IqM, or forming a new force [not to mention repeated errors in press reporting].  Known IA Divisions are 1st through 12th, 14th, and 17th.

The July 2012 SIGIR Report was released and noted [pg 58]:  8 Avenger Air Defense Systems with associated Radar, 6 M1A1, and 8 M88A2 turning over.   One Short-Range Air Defense Battery does not significantly add to the IA air defense – probably just a test battery to decide on future buys.  The M1A1/M88A2s are probably finishing up the tank and support vehicle deliveries.

IMoD’s Khaima magazine included a report on salvaged IA artillery and new received howitzers [in Arabic].   40 Type 83s noted in one picture.  4 courses have been trained on the M109 and M198 projects, and in addition to the US supplied units some have been refurbished from Taji stocks. The 6th Division [due to their proximity] has been in close cooperation with the Artillery school on training and support for field artillery.  There are also indications that 12th Division has formed a Field Artillery Regiment.  Total numbers and types of functional howitzers in the IA are unknown. 

"The Government of Iraq has requested a possible sale of 6 AN/TPQ-36(V)11 FIREFINDER Radar Systems, 6 AN/TPQ-37(V)9 FIREFINDER Radars, 3 Meteorological Measuring Sets, 86 AN/VRC-92 export variant Single Channel Ground and Airborne Radio Systems, 12 Advanced Field Artillery Tactical Data Systems, 3 Improved Position and Azimuth Determining Systems, 63 M1152A1 and 3 M1151A1 High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles, 12 M1083A1 Family of Medium Tactical Utility Vehicles, ..."  This is the start of establishing an effective counter-battery capability for IA’s artillery forces but only represents counter battery radars for 2 Field Artillery Regiments and a training set.

The ISF is consolidating or re-subordinating the Joint Operational commands by consolidating Samarra OC, Kirkuk OC, and Diyala OC into Tigris Operational Command just as Wasit OC and Karbala OC were consolidated into Furat Awsat OC.  This appears to be reducing to the de facto IA peacetime Corps commands.  In wartime these would be Army-level commands.  Of note, the same IA General that commanded 12th Division when it had its problems with the KRG is assuming command of Tigris OC.

Elements of 38/10 Brigade were ordered to the Syrian border for dealing with the refugee problem only to get a battalion into a confrontation with the KRG in the disputed areas.  1-38/10 Motorized and 2-38/10 Motorized Battalions [DZIK3s] were split between Qaim/Ba'aj and Sinjar, while 1-36/9 Armor Regiment [M1A1] was sent to Qaim.  A face off developed between a 38/10 Battalion and the Kurdish 8th Regional Guards Brigade that was already there.  [Reporting is contradictory as to which IA motorized battalion was involved – most claim 2-38/10.]  An unconfirmed report indicates that elements of 37/9 Mechanized Brigade, an Armor Battalion of 6/2 Brigade, and the 104th Field Artillery Regiment were to reinforce the IA.  There was also mention of possible KRG movements in Diyala, HOWEVER, there have been no confirmations of those claimed movements or any reported shooting.  Most of the fight appears to be in political press releases at this point with claims and counter-claims.