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Iraqi air force takes over C-130 operations

Iraqi air force officials officially began fully independent C-130 air operations Monday, marking the end of the U.S. C-130 air advisory mission here.

A ceremony deactivating the U.S. Air Force’s 321st Air Expeditionary Advisory Squadron and handing over C-130 operations, maintenance and training to the Iraqi air force’s Squadron 23 formalized the milestone.

“Today, I say we are proud to have had the honor to work with you side by side as brothers, not less,” said Brig. Gen. Kareem Ali Abud, commander of the Iraqi air force’s New Al-Muthana Air Base, according to an Air Force release. “We respect your sacrifices: leaving your families behind just to support Iraqi air forces. We are grateful for you and your families. We don’t like to say goodbye. See you again with better situations in Iraq.”

Squadron 23 is the largest C-130 squadron in the Iraqi air force, and its mission includes delivering troops and cargo, supporting distinguished visitors and flying medical evacuation missions. The squadron was formed when the United States gave three C-130E aircraft to the Iraqis through the Excess Defense Articles program.