WASHINGTON – The United States has recently approved a staggering $20 billion in arms sales to Israel, marking a significant move in bolstering the country’s defense capabilities. The announcement, made by the State Department on Tuesday, includes a variety of military equipment such as fighter jets and advanced air-to-air missiles.
Congress has been notified of this impending sale, which comprises more than 50 F-15 fighter jets, Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAMs), tank ammunition, high-explosive mortars, tactical vehicles, and other essential military assets. This decision comes amidst heightened tensions in the Middle East, raising concerns about potential conflicts involving Israel.
While the weapons’ delivery is not expected to happen in the near future, as these are long-term contracts that will take years to fulfill, the sale aims to enhance Israel’s military readiness and strength in the coming years.
“The United States is committed to the security of Israel, and it is vital to U.S. national interests to assist Israel in developing and maintaining a strong self-defense capability. This proposed sale aligns with those objectives,” stated the State Department in a release.
The Biden administration faces a delicate balancing act in providing ongoing support to Israel while facing mounting pressure from lawmakers and the American public to reconsider military aid due to civilian casualties in Gaza. In response, the administration has halted one delivery of 2,000-pound weapons amid ongoing airstrikes in densely populated civilian areas.
The contracts not only entail the sale of new aircraft produced by Boeing but also include upgrade kits for Israel’s existing fleet of F-15 fighter jets. These upgrades will involve new engines, radars, and other enhanced capabilities, with the first deliveries expected in 2029. The jets comprise a significant portion of the $20 billion arms sales agreement.
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