Special to WorldTribune.com

WASHINGTON — The Defense Department has awarded a $24 million contract to support Iraq’s new C-130J air transport fleet.

Under the award, Lockheed Martin would provide training and technology to help the Iraq Air Force maintain the aircraft.

“This award is a sole-source award and is 100 percent foreign military sales for Iraq,” the Pentagon said.

Iraq has ordered and received six C-130J aircraft from L-M. The Iraq Air Force was said to be planning to use the platform for troop transport and humanitarian relief operations.

In a statement on March 13, the Pentagon said L-M would transfer technology for C-130J maintenance. The contract would take place at the new Al Muthana air base, also known as Baghdad International Airport.

“Work is expected to be completed by Jan. 31, 2017,” the Pentagon said.

  C-130J, U.S. approves contract to maintain Iraq’s C-130J fleet, WorldTribune