The US Air Force has awarded Colorado-based Vectrus Systems a new contract valued at approximately $252 million to continue supporting Iraq’s fleet of F-16 Fighting Falcons. The deal follows a similar $118-million agreement signed in June, underscoring Washington’s long-term commitment to strengthening Baghdad’s air capabilities. Under the latest award, Vectrus will provide base operations, life support, and security services at the Martyr Brigadier General Ali Flaih Air Base in Salah al-Din province.
According to contract details, the work is expected to run until September 24, 2026, extending Vectrus’ involvement and ensuring uninterrupted support for Iraq’s premier fighter jet force. The contract reinforces a decade-long pattern of US contractor presence at the air base, which has helped maintain the readiness of Iraqi F-16s even amid regional instability and periodic disruptions caused by Iran-backed militia attacks.
Iraq currently operates 34 F-16 fighter jets, all stationed at the Martyr BG Ali Flaih Air Base, located roughly 60 to 70 kilometers north of Baghdad. The aircraft were first delivered in 2014, the same year the US launched Operation Inherent Resolve to combat the Islamic State (IS) in Iraq and Syria.
The air base remains a central hub for Iraq’s fixed-wing strike missions, supporting ongoing operations against remaining IS pockets. Continued contractor support through 2026 aims to ensure the F-16 fleet remains operational, capable, and ready for counterterrorism missions.
