🇮🇱🇺🇸✈️ "Gideon" Refueler Joins the Israeli Air Fleet

🔺In a ceremony attended by the Chief of Staff, the Air Force Commander, and a number of Israeli commanders, the first Boeing KC-46 strategic refueling aircraft, named "Gideon," landed at Nevatim Air Base in the southern occupied Palestine.

🗄 This aircraft, capable of carrying 200,000 pounds of fuel (15% more than the previous generation), not only extends operational range but also has the ability to refuel multiple fighter jets simultaneously. With the arrival of Gideon, Tel Aviv's reliance on the U.S. military's refueling fleet—which played a key role during the Ramadan War—will be significantly reduced.

✍️ It is worth noting that Israel has so far finalized contracts to purchase six of these aircraft, and according to estimates, there is a possibility of acquiring two additional units in the future. Israeli military officials have announced they are seeking to exercise the option for two more aircraft, as they believe six KC-46s alone will not be sufficient to fully replace the aging fleet and meet future operational needs. The United States has committed to maintaining a number of refueling aircraft at Israeli air bases at least until the end of 2027, ensuring that long-range strike capabilities—particularly against Iran—remain in place.

#Israel #US