Advanced Israeli technologies to be installed on next-generation heavy-lift helicopters.
Israel Air Force CH53-K Helicopter.
Elbit Systems to Equip Israel Air Force’s CH53-K Helicopters: The Israel Ministry of Defense (IMOD) has signed an agreement valued at approximately $130 million (more than NIS 400 million) with Elbit Systems to integrate advanced Israeli-made technologies into the Israeli Air Force’s future CH-53K “Pereh” heavy-lift helicopters. The deal was signed through the Defense Procurement Directorate (DPD) as part of Israel’s preparations to receive 12 new helicopters that will replace the aging “Yas’ur” fleet currently in service.
The agreement is being led by the Deputy Director of the DPD for Air and Sea Procurement and represents a significant step in ensuring the helicopters are fully adapted to Israel’s unique operational and combat requirements.
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Integrating Advanced Israeli Technologies
Under the deal, Elbit Systems will integrate a range of advanced Israeli systems into the CH-53K helicopters. These include command and control systems, avionics, electronic warfare suites, and the advanced Directional Infrared Counter Measures (DIRCM) anti-missile defense system.
The integration is expected to significantly enhance operational effectiveness by improving situational awareness, survivability, and mission execution. The upgraded cockpit environment will support flight in complex and challenging conditions, while also enabling improved identification of safe landing zones and potential obstacles during operations.
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Israel Air Force CH53-K Helicopter.
CH-53K Helicopters Acquired Through U.S. FMS Program
The CH-53K helicopters were acquired through a Foreign Military Sales (FMS) agreement signed several years ago between the IMOD and the United States government. The aircraft are manufactured by Lockheed Martin–Sikorsky and are currently in the assembly phase at the company’s main production facility in Connecticut.
Once assembly is completed, the helicopters will be transferred to a dedicated installation and production line established specifically to adapt the American-configuration aircraft to Israeli systems. This process ensures the helicopters meet the operational needs defined by the Israeli Air Force (IAF).
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Strengthening Operational Edge and Domestic Industry
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz described the agreement as a key milestone in strengthening the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and preserving the Israeli Air Force’s long-term operational advantage.
“This deal marks a major milestone in strengthening the IDF and securing the Israeli Air Force’s operational edge for years ahead,” Katz said. “Integrating cutting-edge Israeli systems into the world’s most advanced heavy-lift helicopter ensures these platforms are fully adapted to Israel’s unique combat requirements.”
He emphasized Israel’s continued commitment to promoting domestic “blue-and-white” defense production and integrating Israeli industries into strategic programs, ensuring production independence, supply continuity, and operational superiority.
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Part of a Broader Multi-Year Force Buildup
IMOD Director General Maj. Gen. (Res.) Amir Baram highlighted the strategic importance of the CH-53K program within Israel’s broader force modernization efforts.
“The CH-53K helicopters are a key part of the multi-year procurement program the Ministry is pursuing alongside the IDF,” Baram said, noting that the program also includes fighter aircraft, helicopters, aerial refueling tankers, and a wide range of armaments that will shape the IDF’s force structure for the coming decade and beyond.
He added that integrating Israeli technologies into the world’s most advanced heavy-lift helicopter demonstrates both the technological edge of Israel’s defense industries and the potential of embedding Israeli systems into next-generation aircraft platforms.
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Elbit Systems’ Role in a Flagship Program
Elbit Systems President and CEO Bezhalel (Butzi) Machlis said the company is proud to play a central role in what he described as a flagship modernization project for the Israeli Air Force.
“We are honored to take part in the flagship project to upgrade the helicopter fleet and to support the complex needs of the Air Force through Elbit’s most advanced systems,” Machlis said. “These systems, representing the forefront of Elbit’s proven technology, are tailored to the Air Force’s requirements and provide an optimal advanced technological envelope for mission execution and for ensuring pilot safety.”
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Preparing the Next Generation of Heavy-Lift Operations
With the integration of Israeli-developed systems, the CH-53K “Pereh” helicopters are expected to become a cornerstone of Israel’s heavy-lift and special operations capabilities. The program reflects a broader strategy of combining leading global platforms with indigenous technologies to deliver customized, high-performance solutions tailored to Israel’s operational environment and long-term defense needs.
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