Israel's Defense Ministry and the U.S. Pentagon signed an agreement Wednesday for 12 Boeing Apache Echo attack helicopters, the newest variant in the Apache family, following Israeli government approval the same day.
The Israeli government allocated approximately one billion shekels to the Defense Ministry for the procurement. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in the early 2030s.
The agreement came after several delays granted by the U.S. administration at Israel's request due to budget constraints. Major General Amir Baram, director general of the Defense Ministry, instructed the ministry's delegation in Washington to finalize the deal once financing was secured.
The Defense Ministry said the agreement and its financing framework were developed in cooperation with American officials, led by the Israeli delegation and the Budget Ministry. The ministry expressed gratitude to Washington for its support and flexibility in helping Israel overcome financing gaps.
Israeli Defense Minister Yisrael Katz characterized the purchase as a major investment in future military capabilities. "The purchase of Apache helicopters represents a decisive step in building the strength of the army," Katz said, noting that the helicopters would enhance operational capabilities against a broad spectrum of threats and contribute to Israel's security in the coming years.