A potential $ 3.8 billion Foreign Military Sale to Israel + U.S. approves Multibillion-Dollar Arm$ $ale$ to both Israel and Saudi Arabia

 

Jan

31

Israel Moves to Acquire Latest-Generation AH-64E Apache Attack Helicopters From U.S.

The U.S. State Department has cleared a potential $ 3.8 billion Foreign Military Sale to Israel that would provide 30 Boeing AH-64E Apache Guardian attack helicopters, along with associated mission equipment, training, and logistical support, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency said in a notification to Congress published on January 30, 2026. 

 

The proposed sale aligns with Israeli defense planning as the Israel Air Force looks to transition away from legacy Apache models that are becoming increasingly costly and complex to sustain.

The AH-64E Apache Guardian is the latest evolution of the U.S.-built attack helicopter, combining enhanced engines, Longbow fire control radar, advanced sensors, and manned-unmanned teaming to deliver precision strike, survivability, and counter-drone capabilities in high-threat environments. (Picture source: U.S. Department of War)

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U.S. approves Multibillion-Dollar Arm$ $ale$ to both Israel and Saudi Arabia

Amid tensions with Iran, the State Department said it green-lighted a $3.8-billion sale of 30 Apache attack helicopters to Israel. The State Department also approved a $9-billion sale to Saudi Arabia for 730 Patriot missiles, which are used to defend against incoming attacks.

Le Monde with AFP

Published yesterday at 2:37 am (Paris), updated yesterday at 10:25 am

US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the State Dining Room at the White House in Washington, DC, on September 29, 2025. JONATHAN ERNST/REUTERS

The United States on Friday, January 30, approved multibillion-dollar weapons sales to both Israel and Saudi Arabia, at a point of high tensions with Iran. The State Department said it green-lighted a $3.8-billion sale of 30 Apache attack helicopters to Israel, which has agreed to a fragile ceasefire in Gaza. 

 

"The United States is committed to the security of Israel, and it is vital to US national interests to assist Israel to develop and maintain a strong and ready self-defense capability," 

----the State Department said in a statement. 

 

"This proposed sale is consistent with those objectives."

Also in the package was a $1.8 billion sale of joint light tactical vehicles. 

.The U.S. sends billions of dollars worth of military supplies per year to Israel, largely in aid rather than sales.

• Israel and Hamas reached a US.-backed ceasefire in October that largely paused two years of war. 
• Tensions are high elsewhere in the region as the US deploys a major military contingent in waters near Iran.

 

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The State Department also approved a $9-billion sale to Saudi Arabia for 730 Patriot missiles, which are used to defend against incoming attacks.

Israel last year carried out a major bombing campaign against nuclear and other military sites in Iran. Iran has faced growing pressure after major protests against the clerical state, which has responded by killing thousands of protesters.

Saudi Arabia, while no friend of Iran, has voiced caution about an attack on Iran as Gulf monarchies fear instability that could jeopardize their reputation as business havens. Saudi Arabia for years has been considering a historic normalization with Israel, which increasingly seems distant as the kingdom looks warily at Israel's military campaigns in the Palestinian territories.

The Trump administration has said that the Gaza ceasefire is now in its second phase, with a focus on disarming Hamas.

Le Monde with AFP