The U.S. Department of State has approved a possible Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to Israel for 30 AH-64E Apache Guardian attack helicopters, valued at an estimated USD 3.8 billion, according to a January 30, 2026 notification from the Defense Security Cooperation Agency. The approval supports Israel’s long-term plan to modernize its attack helicopter fleet as older Apache variants approach the limits of cost-effective upgrades.
The proposed package, which has been formally notified to the U.S. Congress, includes Boeing-built AH-64E aircraft along with mission equipment, training, spare parts, and logistical support. U.S. officials stated that the sale aligns with Israeli defense requirements as the Israeli Air Force seeks to gradually replace legacy AH-64A Peten and AH-64D Saraf helicopters, which remain operationally relevant but increasingly complex to maintain due to aging airframes and legacy digital architectures.
Compared to earlier Apache variants, the AH-64E Guardian introduces major improvements in propulsion and flight performance. Powered by T700-GE-701D engines, the aircraft offers increased power margins that enhance payload capacity, maneuverability, and hot-and-high performance. An upgraded composite main rotor system, derived from technologies developed for the RAH-66 Comanche, enables higher cruise speeds and extended operational reach, addressing performance limitations encountered by earlier models in demanding operating environments.
The Guardian also features a significantly upgraded digital and sensor suite designed for high-intensity, networked combat operations. Its open-architecture avionics, enhanced mission computer, and advanced data links improve situational awareness and reduce crew workload. Combined with the AN-APG-78 Longbow fire control radar and modernized electro-optical sensors, the AH-64E can detect, track, and engage multiple targets while remaining masked behind terrain, strengthening Israel’s attack helicopter capabilities in contested airspace.
