Multi-National Security Transition Command – Iraq Public Affairs Office, Phoenix Base APO AE 09348

PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release No. 080322-01
March 22, 2008
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DSN:  318-852-1332
IRAQNA:  0790-194-0270

Iraqi Police add new trucks to fleet through Foreign Military Sales Program (Baghdad)

BAGHDAD – Supplying a growing police force that has doubled in the past three years presents challenges to continually meet this growing demand.   But, the Ministry of Interior is proving it can meet these requirements through the Foreign Military Sales program that is bringing thousands of new vehicles and other equipment into Iraq, said the Ministry of Interior's MG Abdulameer.

MG Abdulameer, Assistant Deputy Ministry for Infrastructure, said the Ministry of Interior has purchased 2,600 vehicles this year to strengthen its force.   He announced that more than 300 Ford F-350 Super Duty pickup trucks and Ford Ranger pickup trucks arrived recently.  

The vehicles are sent to every Province and branch of the Ministry of Interior, he said.
"We want our people to have the best training and equipment they need."    In addition to vehicles, the Iraqi's FMS program has purchased thousands of weapons and millions of rounds of ammunition this year.

"This FMS program is important to us," said Abdulameer.   "This program is helping us get the best prices, the best quality material from many different sources worldwide, and the best benefit."   He said the program also helps Iraq by utilizing the contracting and expertise of the United States government in coordinating these large and complex orders with various governments.

Abdulameer said the Ministry of Interior forces could approach a strength of 500,000, requiring a robust logistical and infrastructure building program to support this growth.   

"With all this new equipment and the training qualifications our people are taking, our people will have the resources and capabilities to face the terrorists and bring peace to Iraq, and peace to the people," said Abdulameer.

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