Israel signs $3 billion deal with US to buy helicopters and tanker aircraft

The Israeli Defense Ministry says it has signed a contract with the US government worth more than $3 billion to purchase two Boeing KC-46 tanker aircraft and 12 Lockheed Martin CH-53K helicopters.

Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz has described the contracts as “milestones” for strengthening the Israeli Air Force. The first helicopters are expected to be delivered to the Israeli government in 2026.

It was previously reported that Israeli officials had requested that the United States provide the country with Boeing KC-46 aircraft, which are specifically designed for aerial refueling of fighter jets, ahead of schedule, but the US Department of Defense rejected the request and will deliver the aircraft to Israel in 2025.

The Boeing KC-46 is capable of flying to targets 11,000 kilometers away and can stay in the air for 11 to 12 hours. These aircraft play a crucial role in refueling fighter jets when they are engaged in prolonged combat operations.

According to Israeli media, receiving these refueling planes is "vital for the success of the operation to attack Iran."

Source: Radio Farda