REQUEST: FULL RELEASE U.S. ORIGIN EQUIPMENT

S E C R E T BAGHDAD 002041 SIPDIS SIPDIS E.O. 12958: DECL: 06/11/2016 TAGS: IZ PINS MOPS SUBJECT: REQUEST: FULL RELEASE U.S. ORIGIN EQUIPMENT Classified By: David M. Satterfield for reasons 1.4 (a),(b),and (d). ¶1. (U) This is an action request. Please see para 9. ¶2. (S) SUMMARY: The Core Country Team for Security Matters requests the full release of the AN/AAR-47 Missile Warning System and AN/ALE-47 Countermeasure Dispensing System to the Government of Iraq. These systems are currently deployed on three Iraqi C-130Es gifted by the USG, but its use is limited by an Exception to National Disclosure Policy (ENDP). The ENDP states that Iraqi personnel can only operate the systems while under USG supervision. The country team position is that the ENDP should be modified to allow the GOI to operate the systems independent of the USG on the C-130E and to procure additional systems for other Iraqi aircraft scheduled for 2006 procurement. END SUMMARY. ¶3. (S) REASON FOR ENDP MODIFICATION REQUEST: Although Coalition Forces presently perform most air missions, this is not the long-term plan. The Iraqi Security Forces (ISF), including the Iraqi Air Force (IAF),increasingly are taking the lead on defense of their own country so Coalition troops can draw down. To ensure a successful and sustainable transition, Iraqi services must be able to independently own and operate appropriate equipment, including the AN/AAR-47 Missile Warning System and AN/ALE-47 Countermeasure Dispensing System. The equipment is crucial to protecting aircrews and aircraft, especially in Iraq where the insurgency has targeted and shot down aircraft. This risk, which is not likely to subside in the foreseeable future, has led the Iraqis to plan to procure the AN/AAR-47 Missile Warning System and AN/ALE-47 Countermeasure Dispensing System for incorporation on at least two budgeted aircraft in 2006. ¶4. (S) RELEASE OF SENSITIVE TECHNOLOGY: Iraq has demonstrated the intent and ability to protect sensitive, classified military technology since working with U.S. and Coalition forces. An Article 505 agreement (signed July 24, 2004) by the GOI demonstrates their agreement to protect grant defense articles and technology similar to our standards. We will continue to mentor the GOI on their protection of sensitive USG technology in order to provide long-term cooperation with the IAF. We also will obtain all necessary formal agreements with the GOI before transferring any sensitive equipment or technology. Lastly, we will continue to carry out a robust end-use monitoring program. ¶5. (S) ANTICIPATED REACTION OF NEIGHBORING COUNTRIES: We do not anticipate the release of the AN/AAR-47 Missile Warning System to affect adversely the regional balance of power or cause negative reactions from neighboring nations, as these systems are defensive in nature. ¶6. (S) IRAQ'S POLITICAL IMPORTANCE IN THE REGION: One primary USG foreign policy objective is a stable, democratically-elected Iraqi government that is capable of protecting its people and sovereignty while remaining at peace with its neighbors. Full release and employment of the AN/AAR-47 Missile Warning System and AN/ALE-47 Countermeasure Dispensing System would facilitate progress toward this end. ¶7. (S) SOURCE OF FINANCING AND ECONOMIC IMPACT: We do not envision that USG approval to fully release this technology would affect adversely either Iraqi or USG funding. ¶8. (S) RELEVANT HUMAN RIGHTS CONSIDERATIONS: There are no human rights considerations that should preclude the release of the defense equipment to the Iraqi military. ¶9. (S) ACTION REQUEST: The Core Country Team for Security Matters requests the Department to engage with the Office of the Secretary for the Air Force/International Affairs (SAF/IA) and other relevant offices to modify the current ENDP to allow the full release of the AN/AAR-47 Missile Warning System and AN/ALE-47 Countermeasure to the GOI. END ACTION REQUEST. SPECKHARD