BREAKING: Israel’s first Boeing KC-46A Pegasus aerial refueling aircraft, designated “Gideon” (301), has landed at Nevatim Airbase, marking a major milestone in the Israeli Air Force’s long-range strike capabilities.

The aircraft is the first of six advanced KC-46A tankers ordered by Israel, with two additional aircraft still under option. The new fleet will gradually replace the IAF’s aging Boeing 707 “Re’em” refueling aircraft, some of which have been in service for nearly 60 years.  

Nicknamed “Gideon” after the biblical military leader, the tanker is expected to significantly expand Israel’s operational reach across the Middle East, allowing fighter jets such as the F-35I “Adir,” F-15, and F-16 fleets to conduct longer-range missions with greater independence. Israeli officials have described the aircraft as a key component in maintaining air superiority “across all theaters.”  

The KC-46A is based on the Boeing 767 platform and will reportedly be equipped with Israeli-made communications, electronic warfare, and self-protection systems tailored to the IAF’s operational needs.