Iraqi pilots start training on F-16D fighter aircraft at Tucson US National Guard airbase

The Iraqi government purchased 36 F-16 Fighting Falcons to help rebuild their air force; however the security situation in Iraq made delivering the aircraft impractical. The decision was made to instead deliver a portion of the jets to Tucson, Arizona and continue the IAF pilots' training there. The Arizona ANG's 162nd Wing was chosen to provide the training due to its already established experience with foreign students.