The U.S. Department of State has approved a potential Foreign Military Sale to Israel for up to 30 AH-64E Apache Guardian attack helicopters, valued at an estimated USD 3.8 billion, according to a Defense Security Cooperation Agency notification dated January 30, 2026. The decision supports Israel’s long-term plan to modernize its attack helicopter fleet as earlier Apache variants approach the limits of viable upgrade paths.
In its notification to Congress, the DSCA confirmed that the approved package would provide Israel with 30 Boeing AH-64E Guardians, along with associated mission systems, training, and logistical support. The proposed sale aligns with Israeli Air Force modernization priorities as it prepares to gradually replace legacy Apache models that are becoming increasingly expensive and complex to operate and sustain.
The AH-64E Guardian represents a significant generational advance over the Apache variants currently in Israeli service. The Military Balance 2025 lists Israel as operating 46 attack helicopters, comprising 26 AH-64A Apache Peten and 20 AH-64D Apache Saraf aircraft. Although both types have received extensive local upgrades, their underlying airframes and digital architectures date back to Cold War and early post-Cold War design philosophies. Transitioning to the AH-64E introduces modern propulsion, avionics, networking, and survivability features optimised for contemporary high-intensity and multi-domain combat.
A key improvement lies in propulsion and overall flight performance. The AH-64E is powered by T700-GE-701D engines that provide increased power margins, enabling higher payloads, improved hot-and-high performance, and greater agility. The helicopter also incorporates an upgraded composite main rotor system derived from technology developed for the RAH-66 Comanche programme, delivering higher cruise speeds and extended operational range. These enhancements directly address performance constraints experienced by earlier Apache variants when operating with heavy weapon loads in demanding environments.
Equally important is the Guardian’s digital architecture. While the AH-64D Saraf introduced the Longbow fire control radar and improved night-fighting capabilities, the E-model employs an open systems architecture that supports rapid software updates and streamlined integration of new sensors and weapons. Upgraded mission computers, advanced data links, and improved cockpit displays significantly enhance situational awareness and reduce crew workload during complex, networked strike operations.
Sensor and targeting capabilities have also been substantially improved. The AH-64E integrates the AN-ASQ-170 Modernized Target Acquisition and Designation Sight with the AN-AAR-11 Modernized Pilot Night Vision Sensor, providing higher-resolution imagery, longer detection ranges, and more accurate target tracking than earlier systems. When combined with the AN-APG-78 Longbow fire control radar, the Guardian can detect, classify, and engage multiple targets while remaining masked behind terrain—an essential advantage in air-defence-dense operating environments.
