First sighting of Heyl Ha’Avir Pegasus

In the first week of May 2025, Israel’s first KC-46A Pegasus tanker aircraft was spotted outside Boeing’s Everett factory in Washington. The tanker, serial 301, is the first of four KC-46As that will replace the current fleet of converted Boeing 707s.

On 1 September 2022, aircraft manufacturer Boeing signed a contract with the US Department of Defence (DoD) to supply Israel with four KC-46A refueling aircraft. The multi-role tanker enables mid-air refueling for fighter jets and other aircraft and can also be used for military transport.

For Israel, the aircraft are considered essential for conducting potential long-range strikes against targets in Iran, approximately 2.000 kilometers (1.200 miles) away—well beyond the standard operational range of Israeli jets.

The deal is valued at USD 927 million, funded through the USD 3,8 billion in annual military aid that Israel receives from Washington under the 10-year memorandum of understanding between the two countries.

The agreement also includes an option for Israel to purchase an additional four KC-46 aircraft in the future.

Credit photo: Paine Airport (@mattcawby)