The Defense Department has notified Congress that Iraq has requested medical supplies, equipment and training for its military and security forces. The Pentagon's Defense Security Cooperation Agency said the proposed sale could reach nearly $1.05 billion.

Under the proposal, which requires approval by Congress, Iraq would receive a range of medical equipment, medicine, support and training. Officials said the procurement would be required to facilitate an Iraqi response to attacks on soldiers and civilians.

"This proposed sale would contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the U.S. by providing basic medical needs to Iraqi forces and, as necessary and appropriate, civilians who are casualties of ongoing conflict," the agency said on Thursday. "The medical supplies will help minimize the casualties sustained during military operations."

This was the latest in a series of Iraqi military requests to the administration in 2007. So far, Baghdad has asked for nearly $2 billion worth of munitions, explosives, light weapons and military infrastructure.

The agency did not identify potential contractors for the latest proposed project. Officials said any contract would not contain offset agreements.