The U.S. government has authorized the sale of a significant batch of general-purpose bombs to equip the Israeli Air Force’s fighter jets. This was indicated in one of the latest notifications from the State Department to the U.S. Congress for approval.
Although the ceasefire between the Israel Defense Forces and the terrorist group Hamas remains in effect in recent weeks, this has not prevented the Israeli government from advancing in the acquisition of significant arms shipments from the United States. This is reflected in the recent authorizations issued in January, through which the State Department approved the sale of Hellfire missiles and guided munitions worth $660 million and $6.75 billion, respectively.
These authorizations in favor of Israel have been followed by the most recent one, published by the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) on February 28. According to reports, the Israeli government has requested the purchase of up to 35,529 general-purpose bombs from the United States, which may consist entirely of MK 84 or BLU-117 bombs or a combination of both.
The deal, with General Dynamics as one of its main suppliers, amounts to $2.04 billion. In addition to the aforementioned bombs, the package also includes the provision of up to 4,000 I-2000 penetrating warheads, “… spare parts, consumables, accessories, and repair-and-return support; transportation logistics support; engineering services, technical and logistical support from the U.S. government and contractors, and other elements related to logistics and program support,” with deliveries expected, pending congressional approval, by 2026.
“The United States is committed to Israel’s security, and it is vital to U.S. national interests to assist Israel in developing and maintaining a strong and prepared self-defense capability. This proposed sale aligns with those objectives,” stated the State Department.
It further added: “The proposed sale will enhance Israel’s ability to address current and future threats, strengthen its national defense, and serve as a deterrent against regional threats. Israel will have no difficulty integrating this equipment into its armed forces.”
Finally, as with previous authorizations, the purpose of this new acquisition of general-purpose bombs is likely to replenish and increase the stockpile of munitions used by Israeli Air Force fighter jets. Among them, the F-15I Ra’am, F-16I Sufa, and F-35I Adir stand out, as they have played a key role—whether to a greater or lesser extent—in air operations against the terrorist group Hamas in the Gaza Strip.
Images used for illustrative purposes.
