Peshmerga forces have begun joint military exercises as part of a major unification plan. Units 70 and 80 started drills, marking a critical step toward merging under a single command.
The Ministry of Peshmerga Affairs is leading this effort to restructure the Kurdish forces. The goal is to build a unified force with two main military zones and 11 infantry divisions. Officials say this move will strengthen coordination and improve defense capabilities.
This initiative is part of a broader reform project backed by the United States, United Kingdom, and Germany. Western allies first introduced the plan in 2018 through a detailed 35-point roadmap. The Kurdistan Parliament later approved the proposal.
A spokesperson from Unit 80 confirmed that the first joint military command will be formed after the merger. The spokesperson said the new structure aims to modernize the Peshmerga and make it more efficient and professional.
The drills reflect a serious push to end the division between Units 70 and 80, which have historically operated under separate political commands. By combining these forces, the Ministry hopes to create a more unified and stable military.
This restructuring marks a turning point for the future of the Kurdistan Region’s defense forces.