Israel to Acquire Two More Boeing KC-46 Tankers in $500 Million US-Financed Deal

Tel Aviv, August 2025 – Israel’s Ministry of Defense has confirmed plans to purchase two additional Boeing KC-46A Pegasus aerial refueling tankers in a deal valued at approximately $500 million. The acquisition, financed through U.S. military aid, is pending approval by Israel’s ministerial committee for defense procurement.

The new aircraft will add to Israel’s fleet of four KC-46s already delivered under earlier contracts, significantly enhancing the Israeli Air Force (IAF) capability to conduct long-range missions.

Strategic Role of the Tankers

Defense Ministry Director General Amir Baram emphasized that the new tankers will provide a vital boost to Israel’s ability to project power far beyond its borders, including potential operations against Iran’s nuclear facilities.

Aerial refueling played a key role during Israel’s 12-day air campaign against Iran in June, allowing strike aircraft to sustain long-range operations and maintain persistent pressure on Iranian targets. The KC-46A is expected to deepen this capability by integrating seamlessly with Israeli avionics and mission systems, though the specific systems to be integrated remain undisclosed.

US Military Aid Framework

The purchase will be covered under the $3.8 billion annual U.S. military assistance package provided to Israel under a 10-year memorandum of understanding signed in 2016. This arrangement mandates that the funds be spent exclusively on American-made defense equipment.

The timing of the deal comes amid intensified debate in Washington over the scope and conditions of U.S. military aid to Israel. Several lawmakers have called for a reassessment of the aid package, citing Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza, humanitarian concerns, and U.S. budget constraints.

Despite the political debate, U.S. officials have continued to stress the strategic importance of Israel’s air power, particularly in the context of countering Iran’s regional activities.

KC-46A Pegasus: A Force Multiplier

Built by Boeing and derived from the 767 commercial airliner, the KC-46A Pegasus is a multi-mission aerial refueling and transport aircraft designed to provide unmatched endurance to combat aircraft.

Key Features:

• Fuel Capacity: Over 96,000 kilograms (210,000 pounds) of fuel, enabling the simultaneous refueling of multiple aircraft.

• Fly-by-Wire Boom: An advanced refueling system capable of faster, safer, and more flexible fuel transfer.

• Self-Refueling Capability: The Pegasus itself can receive fuel from another tanker, extending its operational range even further.

• Cargo & Troop Transport: The aircraft can also be reconfigured to carry cargo, passengers, and medical evacuation equipment, making it highly versatile.

Globally, more than 160 KC-46As have been ordered, with operators including the U.S. Air Force, Japan, Italy, and Israel. The platform is rapidly becoming a cornerstone of long-range strike and mobility strategies for leading air forces.

Strategic Implications for the Region

For Israel, the KC-46 acquisition represents more than just an equipment upgrade; it is a strategic enabler. With tensions in the Middle East centered on Iran’s nuclear ambitions, the ability to conduct sustained, long-distance strike operations is a central element of Israel’s military doctrine.

By expanding its tanker fleet, the IAF will gain:

• Extended operational reach into hostile airspace, including deep inside Iran.

• Greater mission endurance for fighters such as the F-35I Adir and F-15I Ra’am.

• Improved regional deterrence, ensuring Israel can operate independently if required.

The planned acquisition of two additional KC-46A Pegasus tankers underscores Israel’s ongoing commitment to maintaining a qualitative military edge in the Middle East. Supported by U.S. financing, the deal strengthens Israel’s long-range strike capabilities at a time of heightened regional tensions and ongoing debates over American aid.

Once delivered, the expanded fleet of six KC-46As will ensure the Israeli Air Force can sustain extended missions, giving Israel greater operational flexibility and reinforcing its deterrence posture across the region.