Israel’s Ministry of Defense (IMOD) has signed an agreement with the U.S. Pentagon to procure 12 advanced Boeing-manufactured Apache attack helicopters for the Israel Defense Forces, following Israeli government approval on Wednesday. The acquisition represents a significant investment in the IDF’s long-term operational capabilities and forms part of the Ministry’s broader force buildup programme.

IMOD Director General Maj. Gen. (Res.) Amir Baram instructed the Ministry’s Mission to the United States to conclude the agreement following government approval. The helicopters will be of the AH-64E “Echo” variant, the newest and most advanced Apache model, with deliveries scheduled for the beginning of the next decade.

The agreement was tailored through a joint Israeli-American effort to meet Israel’s operational requirements. Its formulation and the framework for its execution were led by the IMOD Mission to the United States and the Ministry’s Budget Department. According to the Ministry, close cooperation with American partners enabled the parties to overcome challenges and develop solutions without compromising operational needs.

The procurement comes as the Ministry advances its decade-long force buildup plan while maintaining immediate readiness for a range of potential scenarios. Further agreements are being pursued for additional platforms, munitions and interceptors. The IMOD expressed its deep appreciation to the U.S. administration for its unwavering support for Israel’s security needs.

Defense Minister, Israel Katz: “The procurement of the Apache helicopters is a critical step in the IDF’s force buildup, one that will strengthen its operational capabilities against a wide range of threats and contribute to the security of the State of Israel in the years to come. The Israeli defense establishment invested considerable effort and acted with determination to overcome the challenges and complete this agreement, out of a deep understanding of its importance in ensuring the IDF’s strength and readiness for future challenges. I thank our partners in the U.S. administration and the Pentagon for their steadfast commitment to Israel’s security, and for the cooperation and flexibility that made this agreement possible. Thank you to all those involved, led by IMOD Director General Maj. Gen. (Res.) Amir Baram, for their professional and dedicated work, and for the perseverance that led to the completion of this important procurement.”

IMOD Director General Maj. Gen. (Res.) Amir Baram: “The execution of the Apache agreement was made possible thanks to creative solutions we developed together with our American partners, without compromising operational needs. This professional work with the U.S. administration reflects the depth of our strategic relationship and the mutual commitment to Israel’s security. The IMOD will continue to work at full pace to sign additional critical agreements, including the acquisition of additional platforms, munitions, interceptors, and more. This is to ensure immediate readiness for any scenario, alongside the implementation of the decade-long force buildup plan, as part of the IMOD’s strategy in the face of emerging challenges.”

President of Boeing Israel, Maj. Gen. (Res.) Ido Nehushtan: “Boeing has been a trusted partner of Israel in building and advancing the country’s national defense capabilities since its earliest days, and we are proud to continue serving as a leading supplier of fighter aircraft, helicopters, munitions and other equipment in the future. The IDF’s selection of the Apache E, following its selection of the world’s most advanced refueling aircraft, the KC-46A, and the decision to procure a second squadron of the world’s most advanced fighter jets, the F-15IA, is compelling proof of its proven operational capabilities on the battlefield and its continued relevance in addressing evolving threats and future operational challenges. Boeing will work in close cooperation with the Government of Israel to provide the Israeli Air Force with the world’s most advanced and capable attack helicopters.”