Israel has taken delivery of its first Boeing KC-46A Pegasus aerial refueling aircraft, the initial example of a planned fleet of at least six tankers for the Israeli Air Force (IAF). Designated “Gideon” in IAF service, the aircraft has arrived in Israel, marking the start of operational integration of the new type.
The KC-46A fleet will replace ageing Boeing 707 “Re’em” tankers that have supported long-range missions for decades. The program is funded through US Foreign Military Sales, with an initial contract for four aircraft worth about 930 million dollars and a follow-on acquisition of two additional KC-46s valued at around 500 million dollars. US approval covers up to eight aircraft in total.
The Israeli KC-46A, based on the Boeing 767 airframe, can carry about 207,000 lb (around 94 tonnes) of fuel and transport roughly 110 personnel, and is configured for multi-mission roles including aerial refueling, cargo, medical evacuation and airborne command post tasks. The IAF expects the new tanker to increase the range and endurance of its combat fleet, including F-35I Adir and future F-15IA fighters.
The maiden flight of Israel’s first KC-46 took place in the United States in early May 2026, with delivery following by the end of the month. Additional aircraft are to be delivered over the coming years, with the final examples expected around 2030.