Israel buys refueling tankers that will help it attack Iran's nuclear sites

Boeing's multi-mission KC-46 refueling tankers will replace the Israeli Air Force's aging fleet of refueling aircraft, needed for any future action against Iran. In seeking to further its reach as a nuclear deal between Iran and the United States looks more likely to be signed, the Israel Air Force has signed a contract with Boeing to purchase four multi-mission KC-46 refueling tankers in a deal valued at $927.5 million. The four new planes that will begin to arrive in 2025 are set to replace the IAF’s aging fleet of Re’em Boeing 707 tankers, aircraft that have been flying in various guises for well over half a century. The deal includes tanker services support, maintenance and repairs, logistics and spares. The planes, that are based on the veteran Boeing 767 widebody airliner, will be built by Boeing in Seattle. “This contract further strengthens the US-Israel alliance and continues the decades-long relationship between Boeing and the Israeli Air Force,” said Ido Nehushtan, president of Boeing Israel and a former commander of the IAF. “The KC-46A will benefit Israel’s efforts to ensure national security and regional stability,” he added.