The United States has cleared a potential USD 150 million Foreign Military Sale to Israel for additional AW119Kx light utility helicopters, as confirmed by the Defense Security Cooperation Agency. Approved by the U.S. State Department and forwarded to Congress, the sale is aimed at expanding Israel’s light helicopter fleet while deepening bilateral cooperation in training, sustainment, and aviation logistics.
According to DSCA, the request represents an expansion of an earlier approved program that remained below the congressional notification threshold, a mechanism often used to scale established defense acquisitions. The proposed package includes additional AW119Kx airframes, aviation ground support equipment, spare parts, repair components, and specialized tools required for certification and maintenance. Engineering support, technical publications, and logistics services are included to support long-term fleet availability.
Beyond hardware, the sale places strong emphasis on human capital and sustainment infrastructure. Training for Israeli pilots and maintenance crews, alongside continued technical support from U.S. government and industry personnel, is designed to ensure rapid fielding and sustained operational performance. This structure reflects a shift toward capability-based acquisition rather than platform-centric procurement.
The Leonardo AW119Kx is a military-configured evolution of the AW119 platform, tailored to armed forces requirements. Equipped with a Pratt & Whitney PT6B-37A engine and a modern glass cockpit compatible with night-vision goggles and IFR training, the helicopter offers strong performance in hot-and-high conditions. Analysts assess that its flexible cabin layout and cost-efficient operations make it an ideal solution for training, utility transport, border security, and medical evacuation missions, enabling Israel to reserve its heavier helicopters for high-intensity combat operations.
