Israel to Buy Two US-Funded Boeing KC-46 Tankers in $500 Million Deal
Israel plans to acquire two Boeing KC-46 aerial refueling tankers in a deal worth about $500 million.
The purchase will be financed through US military aid, pending approval from an Israeli ministerial committee for defense procurement.
Israel already operates four KC-46s, delivered under earlier contracts.
Defense Ministry Director General Amir Baram said the tankers will bolster the Israeli Air Force’s ability to conduct long-range operations. The ministry noted that the new aircraft will be integrated with Israeli systems, though it did not specify which.
Israel used refueling aircraft during its 12-day air campaign against Iran in June, underscoring the role of such platforms in extending strike range and duration.
Aerial refueling capability is considered central to Israel’s ability to project power beyond its immediate neighborhood, including potential operations against Iran’s nuclear infrastructure.
US Aid for Israel
The US provides Israel with roughly $3.8 billion annually in military assistance under a 10-year memorandum of understanding signed in 2016. The arrangement requires Israel to spend the funds on US-made defense equipment.
The contract announcement comes amid renewed debate in Washington over US military aid to Israel.
Some lawmakers from both parties have questioned the scale and conditions of support, citing Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza and concerns over US budget priorities.
KC-46A Pegasus Tanker
The KC-46A Pegasus is a Boeing-built aerial refueling aircraft derived from the 767 commercial airliner.
Designed for multi-mission use, it can carry more than 96,000 kilograms (over 210,000 pounds) of fuel, enabling it to refuel multiple fighter jets and other aircraft in a single mission.
The tanker employs a modern fly-by-wire boom system to transfer fuel during flight, extending the range and endurance of supported aircraft.
In addition to providing fuel, the KC-46A is capable of receiving fuel itself from another tanker, a feature that expands its operational reach and flexibility.
More than 160 KC-46As have been ordered worldwide, positioning the aircraft as a central platform for air forces seeking long-range mobility and sustained operations.
