Israel-US Defense Contract Worth $3 Billion for Helicopters and Refueling Aircraft

Israel’s Ministry of Defense says it has signed a contract with the US government valued at over $3 billion to purchase two KC-46 refueling aircraft from Boeing and 12 CH-53K helicopters from Lockheed Martin.

Benny Gantz, Israel’s Defense Minister, described these contracts as “watershed moments” for strengthening Israel’s air force. The first helicopters are expected to be delivered to the Israeli government in 2026.

Previously, it was reported that Israeli officials had requested that Boeing’s KC-46 aircraft, which specialize in mid-air refueling for fighter jets, be delivered ahead of schedule. However, the US Department of Defense rejected the request, and will deliver these aircraft to Israel in 2025.

Boeing KC-46 aircraft are capable of flying to targets up to 11,000 kilometers away and can remain airborne for 11 to 12 hours. These aircraft play a decisive role in refueling fighter jets during prolonged combat operations.

According to Israeli media reports, receiving these refueling aircraft is of “vital importance” for the Israeli military for the “success of operations to attack Iran.”

Source: Radio Farda