Israel’s Ministry of Defense has signed an agreement with the US Department of Defense to procure 12 Boeing AH-64E Apache attack helicopters for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), adding the latest “Echo” variant to its fleet.
The deal followed government approval of 1 billion shekels ($324 million) for the procurement in a telephone vote earlier that day. It ends months of delays caused by funding disputes between Israel’s finance and defense ministries, with deliveries expected to begin in the early 2030s.
In January 2026, the US approved a possible $3.8-billion sale to Israel of 30 AH-64E Apaches, along with engines, fire-control radars, targeting systems, and logistical support.
“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,” Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said.
“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.”
AH-64E Apache
The twin-engine, tandem-seat AH-64E can carry up to 16 Hellfire missiles, 76 2.75-inch rockets, and an M230-series 30mm chain gun with up to 1,200 rounds. It also features Link 16 connectivity, manned-unmanned teaming capabilities for drone control, and a modular architecture for future upgrades.
Israel currently operates approximately 23 AH-64A Peten and 20 AH-64D Saraph helicopters. In addition to ground-attack missions, they have been used to intercept unmanned aerial vehicles, a role also performed by attack and multirole helicopters in Ukraine.