Russia has started implementation of a multi-billion dollar arms deal with Iraq, an official with the Middle Eastern nation’s government said.

Russia is to supply over 10 fully armed and equipped Mi-28NE Night Hunter attack helicopters (photo) to Iraq under a $4.3 billion agreement on cooperation in the defense and technology sector signed in 2012.

Ali Musawi, an Aide to the Iraqi Prime Minister, told the RT television network there had been some doubts about the contract, but said “implementation of one of the contract’s stages has begun.”

He said the contract provides for the delivery of weaponry mainly for anti-terrorist operations.

Alexander Mikheyev, Deputy General Director at Russian state arms exporter Rosoboronexport, said in late June that the helicopter contract also covers pilot and technical personnel training and the delivery of essential weapons systems.

This is the first contract with Iraq under the package agreement, he added.