"We have waited for the arrival of these vehicles for a long time," Col.
Ishmael, a ministry official who could not be fully identified, said. "These
vehicles are very important to us in the ministry and for providing even
better security."
Officials said the value of the shipment was about $1.1 million. They
said the vehicles, meant for deployment by the Iraqi police, were refitted
with armor plating and other custom features in the United Arab Emirates, Middle East Newsline reported.
In Dubai, the Iraqi delegation is to be led by Defense Minister Abdul
Qadir Obeidi, accompanied by representatives of the Interior Ministry and
National Security Ministry. The Interior Ministry of the autonomous Kurdish
government is also to be represented.
Organizers said
registration has been closed for the event, meant to focus on Iraqi defense
requirements.
"Officials from the Ministries of Communications and Science and
Technology will also be attending to discuss the technical services and
solutions required for the defense and security sectors," a statement by the
organizers said.
Obeidi said Iraq has sought artillery, combat vehicles, helicopters,
main battle tanks and armored personnel carriers. The minister said he has
scheduled meetings with Western contractors and defense officials.
Organizers said the U.S. Defense Department would send a large
delegation, accompanied by military commanders and diplomats. Leading
Western defense contractors, such as BAE Systems, EADS, General Dynamics,
Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman and Raytheon, would also attend.
The Iraqi Interior Ministry plans to receive more than 2,600 patrol
cars, SUVs, and pickup trucks from the United States. The ministry has also
ordered another 90 armored vehicles.
In 2007, Iraq ordered about $2 billion in ammunition, weapons, vehicles
and equipment from the United States. Officials said the orders have been
hampered by production delays.
The ministry has received uniforms, ammunition and weapons through the
FMS program in 2008. Officials said the United States would also help
construct and upgrade police and border stations as well as operate police
training centers throughout Iraq.
