Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Mr. Ali Faleh Al-Zaydi, visited the Defense Industries Commission today, Thursday, where he reviewed its production and technical capabilities and the progress it has made in the defense industry.
During a meeting with the Commission’s Chairman and officials, he reaffirmed his strong support for national industry, particularly the defense industry. He stressed that Iraq has the capacity to manufacture the weapons and equipment it needs using Iraqi personnel and expertise. He also directed that the private sector be involved and partnerships with specialized companies be expanded.
The Commander-in-Chief stressed the need to deal directly with original manufacturers and to avoid intermediaries entirely, to ensure transparency in contracting, reduce layers of intermediation and opportunities for corruption, and prevent unlawful practices.
The Prime Minister affirmed that building an advanced defense industry is a fundamental pillar of national sovereignty and strengthens Iraq’s ability to safeguard its security and interests. He also emphasized the importance of research and development and keeping pace with rapid technological advances in the defense industry.
The Commander-in-Chief directed that integration and coordination be strengthened between the Defense Industries Commission, the Ministries of defense and Interior, the Popular Mobilization Commission, and all other security agencies, to identify technical specifications and actual requirements and align production with national priorities and needs.
The Prime Minister praised the progress achieved by the Commission and the capabilities and expertise that position it to serve as an advanced industrial base. He directed that all necessary resources and support be provided to develop its production and technical capabilities, with the aim of meeting the armed forces’ needs for weapons and military equipment and strengthening reliance on domestic production.
During his tour of the Commission’s various sections and departments, the Prime Minister visited its specialized exhibition and viewed examples of the military equipment, weapons, and technologies it has successfully manufactured or developed. These included various types of ammunition; light, medium, and heavy weapons; unmanned aircraft systems; observation and surveillance equipment; and a radio reconnaissance station. He also reviewed the Commission’s work in manufacturing and developing armored vehicles and personnel carriers, alongside a range of civilian industrial products.
