South Korea’s Push for Defense Exports in Iraq
**South Korea is ramping up discussions with Iraq regarding the sale of helicopters, fighter jets, and air defense systems, aiming to enhance its defense exports in the Middle East.** This strategic move aligns with South Korea’s broader efforts to strengthen its position in the global arms market. The Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) announced that these discussions were initiated during the recent IQDEX 2025 defense exhibition held in Baghdad from April 19 to 22.
Major General Koh Hyung-seok, the head of the Helicopter Business Division at DAPA, engaged with key officials from the Iraqi Ministry of Defense to explore avenues for deeper military collaboration. The conversation included potential sales of South Korea’s KUH-1 Surion utility helicopter, domestically manufactured fighter jets, and mobile air defense systems. This initiative follows a contract signed in December 2024 between Iraq and Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) for the delivery of operational maintenance facilities for two Surion helicopters, valued at approximately 101 million dollars.
Seizing Opportunities at IQDEX 2025
The International Defense Exhibition in Baghdad, known as IQDEX, stands out as one of the key events in the Middle East, drawing government defense officials and global defense manufacturers alike. South Korean defense firms, including KAI, LIG Nex1, and Hyundai Rotem, took advantage of this opportunity to exhibit their military capabilities and reliability to potential buyers. DAPA emphasized that their presence at IQDEX was crucial for showcasing the advancements in South Korean military technology.
Furthermore, another DAPA official indicated that Iraq’s interest in South Korean defense products extends beyond the initial agreements. This willingness to explore further procurement options underlines Iraq’s commitment to enhancing its military capabilities through partnerships with South Korea.
South Korea’s Strategic Positioning in the Middle East
South Korea’s efforts to break into the Middle Eastern defense market continue to flourish under its ‘K-Defense’ strategy. The nation is not only establishing itself as a competitive supplier but also solidifying its defense footprint by providing a diverse array of military equipment, from armored vehicles to missile systems. This approach not only strengthens bilateral ties but also enhances regional security.
In addition, Iraq’s acquisition of the M-SAM air defense system from South Korea highlights the growing defense cooperation between the two nations. This move is part of a broader trend of military procurement activities in the region, with reports indicating that boats produced by both Turkey and South Korea have begun operations in Iraq.
