Israel Boosts Air Superiority with New KC-46 Tanker Acquisition
The Israeli Defense Ministry announced on Wednesday that it plans to procure two Boeing KC-46 Pegasus aerial refueling tankers through a $500 million deal financed by U.S. military assistance.
This arrangement, which requires endorsement from Israel’s ministerial committee responsible for defense acquisitions, will be solidified with the U.S. government. The ministry noted that the agreement also includes the integration of systems produced in Israel, although additional details were not revealed.
The recently obtained aircraft will enhance Israel’s current fleet of four KC-46 tankers. As per Ministry Director General Amir Baram, this acquisition will strengthen the nation’s long-range strategic capabilities, allowing the air force to project power over extended areas. Israeli tankers were previously deployed during a 12-day aerial campaign against Iran in June.
The United States provides Israel billions of dollars in annual military assistance, primarily for the procurement of American-made arms and equipment. In recent months, numerous lawmakers from across the political spectrum in the U.S. have voiced concerns regarding the sustainability of such support, citing Israel’s ongoing conflict in Gaza and apprehensions about domestic budgetary priorities.
