The US Air Force has awarded Colorado-based Vectrus Systems a contract to support the Iraqi F-16 fighter jet program, following a similar $118-million deal inked in June.
The approximately $252-million contract covers base operating support, life support, and security services to be carried out at the Martyr Brigadier General (BG) Ali Flaih Air Base, located in Iraq’s Salah al-Din province.
Work is expected to be completed by September 24, 2026.
Locking in Vectrus through 2026 continues a decade-long pattern of US contractor support at the air base, ensuring Iraqi F-16 readiness remains stable despite past disruptions from Iran-backed militia attacks and temporary contractor withdrawals, according to Army Recognition.
Iraqi F-16 Program
Baghdad operates a fleet of 34 F-16 fighter jets.
The aircraft first landed in the country in 2014, the same year that Washington launched airstrikes against the Islamic State (IS) militant group’s presence in Iraq and Syria under Operation Inherent Resolve.
The fleet is stationed at the Martyr BG Ali Flaih Air Base, 60 to 70 kilometers (37 to 43 miles) north of Baghdad in central Iraq.
It is the main hub for fixed-wing strike operations and serves as a launch point against IS positions remaining within the country.
