Ahead of its expected delivery to the Israeli Air Force in about a month, the Boeing-made KC-46 refueling aircraft has completed its first test flight in the US for Israeli use.
The aircraft is the first of six refueling planes purchased by the Defense Ministry's procurement mission in the US. It is part of a major force buildup for operations in the third and fourth circles, which the Defense Ministry is managing on behalf of the Israel Defense Forces.
The KC-46 tankers, known in Hebrew as the "Gideon" aircraft, will be equipped with Israeli systems and adapted to the Israeli Air Force's operational requirements, enabling the air force to extend its flight range.
The refueling aircraft are capable of long-range flights and precise aerial refueling in a wide range of scenarios, in complex coordination with strike squadrons. Each aircraft carries dozens of tons of fuel and can refuel other aircraft midflight in dangerous areas, allowing for sustained strikes and operations at long distances.
Aerial refueling is a critical component of Israel's deterrence and response capabilities, particularly against distant fronts such as Iran, Yemen and others.
