Italian EC-27J in action over northern Iraq

This morning, an Italian Air Force EC-27J “Jedi” aircraft (registration MM62224, callsign WAVE27) carried out a mission over northern Iraq, operating in the skies southeast of Kirkuk.

The aircraft, deployed as part of the international coalition against ISIS, is based at Erbil Air Base and is part of the Task Force Air “SIRIO,” operating under Operation “Prima Parthica,” the Italian contribution to the Inherent Resolve mission.

The EC-27J is a modified version of the C-27J Spartan, developed by Leonardo for electronic warfare and tactical electronic support missions. Its primary role is to provide electronic countermeasures to protect coalition aircraft and disrupt enemy communications during operations.

Today’s flight pattern, which included several loops in a concentrated area, suggests an electronic warfare patrol or a support mission for other assets active in the region. These missions are crucial for maintaining air superiority and ensuring the safety of coalition personnel operating on the ground and in the air.

The continued presence of Italian assets in the region underscores Italy’s long-term commitment to international efforts for regional stability and counterterrorism in Iraq.