The US State Department announced on Tuesday (August 13) that Secretary of State Antony Blinken approved a plan to sell approximately $20 billion worth of weapons to Israel.
According to a press release from the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCE) under the Pentagon, the approved sale plan includes 50 new F-15IA multi-role combat aircraft and retrofit kits for existing F-15I multi-role combat aircraft, with a total cost of approximately $18.2 billion. Deliveries are expected to begin in 2029.
The weapons package also includes 30 advanced medium-range air-to-air missiles (AMRAAM) and related equipment worth about $102.5 million, to be sourced from newly produced items.
Additionally, an estimated $5.831 billion worth of improved M1148A1P2 series medium tactical vehicles (FMTV) and related equipment, scheduled to begin deliveries in 2026. Tank ammunition and related equipment worth around $7.741 billion are expected to start deliveries in 2027.
The press release stated, “The United States is committed to Israel’s defense, assisting Israel in developing and maintaining a strong and ready self-defense capability, which is vital to US national interests. The proposed sale plan aligns with these goals.”
“The proposed sale plan will enhance Israel’s ability to counter current and future enemy threats, strengthen its homeland defense, and serve as a deterrent to regional threats.”
The press release emphasizes, “The proposed sale of these equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.”
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant expressed gratitude on the X social media platform to US Defense Secretary Austin and Secretary of State Blinken for providing fighter jets and key ammunition, stating they “help Israel develop and maintain its military superiority in the region.”
He said, “As we fight for the defense of Israel on seven different fronts, your support and commitment to Israel’s security are clear.”
In June of this year, Reuters reported, citing an anonymous US official, that since the outbreak of the Gaza conflict last October, the Biden administration has sent Israel around 14,000 powerful 2,000-pound bombs and thousands of “Hellfire” missiles, among other large amounts of weapons and ammunition.