Israel reallocates 1.03 bn shekels to fund purchase of 12 Apache helicopters
Written by AI from 1 report listed below. Not checked by a person before publication. How we use AI
Israel will buy 12 AH‑64E Apache attack helicopters, financing the deal with a reassignment of about 1.03 billion shekels (roughly US$300 million).
The reallocation reduces funding for a five‑year program for Israel’s Arab population, with cuts of 169 million shekels planned for 2027, 342 million for 2028 and 453 million for 2029. The Finance Ministry rejected alternative financing options, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich questioned the purchase by suggesting drones could replace the helicopters, while Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly insisted on keeping the acquisition, and the United States granted a final extension until Wednesday, October 14, to complete the operation.