Overview

• Israel’s defense ministry has directed its U.S. mission to proceed with a follow-on buy of two KC-46 refueling aircraft pending sign-off by the Israel Defense Procurement Ministerial Committee.
• The deal is reported at roughly $500 million and would be financed through U.S. aid under the Foreign Military Sales framework.
• If approved, the purchase would add two aircraft to a 2022 order for four KC-46As, aligning with a 2020 U.S. authorization for up to eight.
• Delivery timelines and crew training plans are expected to be finalized later this year, and the aircraft will be adapted with Israeli systems.
• KC-46A tankers can refuel multiple aircraft and carry cargo, passengers, and perform medical evacuation, enhancing the air force’s long-range operations.