US to Sell $6.4 Billion of Weapons to Israel, Including 30 Apache Helicopters and 3250 Armored Vehicles

U.S : The United States has formally submitted a $6.4 billion arms sale proposal to Congress that would significantly strengthen Israel’s air and ground combat capabilities. The package, announced on September 19, includes 30 AH-64E Apache Guardian attack helicopters, 3,250 armored vehicles, and a comprehensive support system of spare parts, training, and logistics.

Advanced Attack Helicopters for Israel

A total of $3.8 billion from the deal is designated for the purchase of AH-64E Apache Guardian helicopters, the most advanced model in Boeing’s Apache family. While Israel currently operates the older AH-64A Peten and AH-64D Saraf, this would be its first acquisition of the E-model.

The AH-64E comes with upgraded General Electric T700-GE-701D engines, providing improved speed, lift, and performance in high-altitude environments. It features the M-TADS/PNVS targeting system for superior all-weather, day-night precision, as well as Link 16 datalink connectivity, enabling real-time coordination with ground forces, drones, and allied air platforms.

A critical advantage is its Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T) capability, allowing Apache crews to control nearby UAVs, receive live video feeds, and conduct strikes beyond line-of-sight. With strengthened fuselage, composite rotor blades, and advanced electronic warfare protection, the E-model is built to survive against MANPADS and radar-guided threats.

Expansion of Armored Mobility

Alongside the helicopter fleet, the package earmarks $1.9 billion for 3,250 infantry assault vehicles. Although the U.S. has not publicly confirmed the exact models, defense industry officials suggest a likely mix of MRAPs and wheeled APCs from manufacturers such as Oshkosh Defense or Navistar. These vehicles are expected to bolster the mobility of Israel’s mechanized infantry brigades, particularly in urban combat zones like Gaza and along the northern frontier with Lebanon.

Training, Sustainment, and Logistics

An additional $750 million will fund training programs, spare parts, and logistical support, ensuring the long-term readiness of both helicopters and vehicles. Deliveries could begin by late 2026, with the Israeli Air Force expected to achieve full operational integration of the new Apaches by 2027, pending Congressional approval.

Political and Regional Impact

The arms package reflects Washington’s continued commitment to preserving Israel’s qualitative military edge amid rising regional instability. Heightened tensions with Iranian-backed groups in Syria, Lebanon, and the Red Sea have increased Israel’s demand for modernized strike and mobility capabilities.

However, the deal faces scrutiny in the U.S. Congress. Some Democratic lawmakers have voiced concern about the use of U.S.-supplied weapons in Gaza, where civilian casualties have drawn international criticism. Under the Arms Export Control Act, the U.S. must verify that recipients comply with humanitarian law, though bipartisan support for Israel suggests the package is likely to pass after the mandatory 30-day review period.

Strategic Significance

If finalized, the agreement will mark a major modernization milestone for the Israeli Air Force and Israel Defense Forces, aligning their capabilities with advanced NATO standards. The arrival of the AH-64E and thousands of armored vehicles will dramatically improve Israel’s ability to conduct joint, multi-domain operations in both conventional wars and asymmetric conflicts.

At a time of escalating regional volatility, the $6.4 billion proposal underscores U.S. intent to integrate Israel more deeply into an American-led defense architecture and to reinforce its standing as Washington’s most important ally in the Middle East.