BAGHDAD — The Iraqi Ministry of Defense (MoD), in partnership with the Multi-National Security Transition Command – Iraq (MNSTC-I), opened the Iraqi Logistics Operation Command (ILOC) with a ribbon cutting ceremony, April 15.

The ILOC facility will provide the Iraqi military with a new level of sophistication in planning and tracking logistical support functions for the armed services.

Iraqi Staff Brig. Gen. Nabeel said, “This is the first time we are using a logistics system and it will be the focal point for the Iraqi Army, Navy, and Air Force.  The ILOC is a database for logistics; it enhances our capabilities to help commanders make decisions for resources and resolve logistical problems that arise.”

The ILOC includes the latest computer technology with multiple individual users connecting to an adjoining data center.  The contractor, SAKCo, is a local Iraqi firm that not only designed the facility, but also constructed the building in accordance with international building codes. 

U.S. Navy Cmdr. Mark Behl, Joint Headquarters Army Advisory Training Team Logistics Location Command Point, MNSTC-I said, “This is a great example of the multi-national forces working with and mentoring local Iraqi construction firms in rebuilding the country’s infrastructure”

The ribbon cutting ceremony was a significant milestone for the project, because the Iraqi armed forces have assumed full operational control of the center.  Nabeel said, “We’re very happy with the building and particularly enthused that it was built by a local Iraqi construction firm.  This facility will enable the Iraqi military to take our logistics planning and execution to a new level.”

“This is the first time we have brought together the resources necessary for logistics,” said Iraqi Minister of Defense Abdul Al-Qadr, while touring the new facility.  “In my opinion, this is the most important center for the Ministry of Defense.  We have people who are trained and are very ready to work in this center.  We have organized logistics and we are very happy we started a project like this and we are on the right path.”

Brig. Gen. Mark G. Lacey GBR, deputy commanding general, MNSTC-I said, “Today is another significant milestone in the development of the Iraqi military capability.  And it recognizes the importance and the significant impact that logistics has in delivering mission success. The fact that we are here today represents the combined efforts and close cooperation of both the Iraqi armed forces and MNSTC-I.”