Two SB7L-360 SEEKER reconnaissance aircraft started limited operations on Thursday, a statement said.

"We are rebuilding the air force and it is giving us a different responsibility," an Iraqi commander, identified only as Colonel Abed, was quoted as saying.

"These flights are meant to protect the oil installations, power lines and our borders from enemies."

The two Australian-made reconnaissance planes fitted with high-resolution surveillance systems were purchased in Jordan in June.

"They are the first of an eventual force of 10 light aircraft of similar capability which will be contracted for by September 21," the statement said.

The two-man, single-engine planes are capable of providing live observation feedback to ground forces and additionally carry digital video recording hardware and other reconnaissance technology.

"The attitude and training of the pilots is very good," said the RAF's Group Captain Neil Jagger, who was head of aviation in the training team.

"We're helping to develop their general awareness with everything around them."

The Iraqi air force currently consists of around 162 servicemen and is aiming for an initial target of 502 trained personnel by December.

Iraq's oil infrastructure has been repeatedly hit by sabotage, mainly by Sunni Muslim insurgents but also by Shiite militiamen in recent weeks.

WAR.WIRE