of 1029 aircraft of all types, including 550 combat aircraft, becoming the largest air force in the region. Its downfall came during the Persian Gulf War (1990-91) and continued while coalition forces enforced no-fly zones. The remnants of Iraq's air force were destroyed during the 2003 U.S.-led invasion.

After the invasion, the IQAF was rebuilt, receiving most of its training and aircraft from the United States.