Israel’s Ministry of Defense has signed an agreement with the US Department of Defense to acquire 12 Boeing AH-64E Apache attack helicopters for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). The procurement follows government approval of 1 billion shekels, approximately $324 million, in a telephone vote. The agreement resolves months of delays caused by disagreements between Israel’s finance and defense ministries over funding. Deliveries are expected to begin in the early 2030s. In January 2026, the United States approved a possible $3.8 billion sale covering 30 AH-64E helicopters, engines, fire-control radars, targeting equipment and logistical support. The twin-engine, tandem-seat Apache can carry up to 16 Hellfire missiles, 76 rockets and an M230-series 30mm chain gun with up to 1,200 rounds. Its capabilities also include Link 16 connectivity and manned-unmanned teaming. Israel currently operates approximately 23 AH-64A Peten and 20 AH-64D Saraph helicopters, which perform ground-attack missions and intercept unmanned aerial vehicles.
