U.S. Approves Over $6.5 Billion in Defense Deals with Israel, Including Apache Helicopters

The United States Department of State approved potential defense sales to Israel worth more than $6.5 billion on Saturday night, the Pentagon announced. The approvals were issued under three separate proposed contracts and represent a significant step toward reinforcing Israel’s military capabilities following lessons drawn from the October 7 Hamas attack and the subsequent “Iron Swords” war.

The largest portion of the package includes the potential sale of AH-64E Apache attack helicopters, valued at $3.8 billion. Additionally, the State Department approved the possible sale of JLTV light tactical vehicles and related equipment, estimated at $1.98 billion. A third defense deal, valued at $740 million, was also approved, though specific details were not disclosed.

Congressional Approval Still Required

U.S. officials emphasized that the approvals do not finalize the sales. The transactions remain subject to additional procedural steps, including congressional review and final authorization, in accordance with U.S. arms export regulations.

The Trump administration formally requested congressional approval for the deals in September of last year, amid growing Israeli concerns over the readiness of key military systems.

 Drive Shift in Air Force Doctrine

Israeli defense officials say the deals reflect a reassessment within the Israel Defense Forces, particularly in the Air Force, regarding the role of combat helicopters. Prior to October 7, the Air Force had increasingly viewed unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) as a potential replacement for attack helicopters in border defense, ground-force support, and multi-theater combat operations.

That assumption proved only partially correct during the war.

“UAVs provide a limited view of the battlefield and struggle to create the comprehensive, real-time picture that Apache helicopters can deliver,” a senior defense official said. “In dealing with drone threats from Gaza, Lebanon, Iran, and Yemen, the Apache has a clear operational advantage.”

Combat Helicopter Fleet at Critically Low Levels

According to defense sources, years of reduced investment in attack helicopters have left the Air Force with a severely depleted fleet. Israel currently operates only two aging Apache squadrons, one of which is nearing the end of its operational life. Many of the helicopters are decades old, and sourcing spare parts has become increasingly difficult.

At its peak, the Air Force operated four Apache squadrons, a capability officials now believe must be rebuilt.

Plan to Acquire Dozens of New Helicopters

The Air Force estimates that Israel needs to acquire several new squadrons—at least dozens of Apache helicopters—to restore operational readiness. Despite the high costs involved, defense planners intend to push for the purchase of approximately 100 Apache helicopters, with at least half to be acquired immediately.

The cost of purchasing and maintaining an Apache helicopter is extremely high and is considered comparable to that of an F-16 fighter jet, both in procurement and lifecycle expenses. Nevertheless, officials argue that the helicopters are indispensable for counter-drone operations, rapid response to infiltration scenarios, and combat against guerrilla forces in Gaza and southern Lebanon.

Strategic Rebuild of Israel’s Aerial Capabilities

Israeli defense officials view the approved U.S. deals as a cornerstone in rebuilding critical aerial capabilities exposed during the war. While the Apache helicopters represent the most expensive component of the package, they are also seen as essential to addressing emerging threats and preventing future large-scale infiltration scenarios similar to those witnessed on October 7.