Iraq Navy to Buy Boats

Iraq's new navy plans to get 21 new boats over the next two years as it prepares to take over the security of offshore oil terminals, the main gateway for the country's petroleum exports, according to an AP report. The Iraqi navy has in operation 10 fast aluminum boats and two other boats in operation. A two-year equipment acquisition program will result in the purchase of 15 patrol boats, four corvettes and two offshore support vessels. The delivery of the first vessels is expected by 2008. (Source: Associated Press)