Israel-US sign defence deal worth $3 billion for fuel carrier aircraft and helicopters

Jerusalem: – Israel and the United States signed a defence agreement worth $3.1 billion. As per the agreement, Israel will be purchasing fuel tanker airplanes and freight helicopters from the United States. Israeli analysts are claiming that this purchase of fuel tanker airplanes will increase the strike range of the Israeli fighter jets and will enable them to carry out attacks on far-flung locations. Israel has prioritised the modernisation of its air force. Against this background, Israel has started moves to replace old helicopters in the air force with new advanced helicopters. At the same time, Israel had started discussions with the United States for the fuel tanker airplanes to increase the strike range of the fighter jets in its fleet.

Moreover, in this regard, agreements have been signed with the leading companies, Lockheed Martin and Boeing. But only a few days ago, reports had been published that the Biden administration was not willing to sign this agreement with Israel. But two days ago, the Israeli defence ministry revealed the information regarding this agreement worth USD 3.1 billion.

According to the agreement, Israel will be purchasing 12 CH-53K helicopters and two KC-46 tanker aircraft from the United States. Of these, the KC-46 of the Boeing company will assist in the mid-air refuelling of the fighter jets. Whereas the helicopters supplied by the Lockheed Martin company will be used for rescue operations. These airplanes and helicopters will join the Israeli fleet after 2025.

It is being claimed that the purchase of the KC-46 tanker airplanes will augment the strike range of the advanced and super-advanced F-15, F-16 and F-35 fighter jets in the Israeli fleet. The distance between Israel and Iran is 1,100 kilometres. Israeli analysts are claiming that if the Arab countries deny Israel the use of their airspace in the coming times. Besides, in the event of any other emergency, these tanker airplanes would prove handy for the Israeli air force.

Israeli analysts pointed out that this agreement has been signed between Israel and the United States while talks are still being held over the Iran nuclear deal in Vienna. Therefore, it is apparent that the United States is trying to exert pressure on Iran, which is unwilling to compromise on its position regarding the nuclear deal.