Iraq, Out of "Hellfire Missiles", Asks U.S. for 1,400 More

Luis Martinez abcnews.go.com With Iraq needing all the help it can get in pushing back Islamic militants, the government has requested 1,400 additional Hellfire missiles from the United States to restock its depleted supply.  Iraq burned through its inventory of 300 Hellfire missiles two weeks ago. In mid-July the US plans to deliver to Iraq the 200 missiles still remaining from an expedited purchase earlier this year of 500 missiles, Pentagon Press Secretary Rear Admiral John Kirby said Friday. However, Kirby also disclosed that “another sale of more than 600 Hellfire missiles is in execution right now, with a delivery of most of them expected by the end of July.” The US, he said, has “received a letter from Iraq asking for another 800, and we’re processing that as we speak.” Kirby added that the missiles’ manufacturer Lockheed Marin has two shifts “working at full capacity right now to modify and test these missiles and get them on their way.” to read more: abcnews.go.com