U.S. Approves $7.41 Billion Arms Sale to Israel Under Trump Administration
The first major arms package approved by Trump for Israel includes thousands of missiles and bombs.
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On February 7, the U.S. State Department approved a potential $7.41 billion sale of military equipment and munitions to Israel. In two separate announcements, the approved requests include small diameter bombs (SDBs), guidance kits, Hellfire missiles, and support equipment.
This marks the first major arms package approved by Donald Trump's new administration for its Israeli ally, reaffirming the continuity of strategic support for Israel’s security under his leadership.
Requested Equipment for Israel
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) detailed the items included in the two approved agreements:
Munitions and Guidance Kit Agreement – $6.75 Billion
- 2,166 GBU-39/B Small Diameter Bombs Increment 1 (SDB-I):
- Precision-guided bombs designed for high-value targets, minimizing collateral damage.
- 2,800 MK 82 bomb bodies (500 lbs):
- General-purpose bombs widely used in conventional airstrikes.
- 13,000 JDAM Guidance Kits for MK-84 Bombs:
- GPS-guided kits that convert 2,000-lb bombs into precision weapons, increasing their effectiveness.
- 3,475 JDAM Guidance Kits for BLU-109 Bombs:
- Designed for penetration bombs, capable of striking hardened targets such as bunkers and underground facilities.
- 1,004 JDAM Guidance Kits for GBU-38v1 Bombs:
- Converts 500-lb bombs into precision-guided munitions for smaller-scale targets.
- 17,475 FMU-152A/B Fuzes:
- Advanced fuzes ensuring accurate detonation timing, enhancing munition effectiveness.
AGM-114 Hellfire Missile Agreement – $660 Million
- 3,000 AGM-114 Hellfire Missiles:
- High-precision air-to-surface missiles, deployable from drones and helicopters.
- The approved variants (R3, F, K1, N, and others) offer operational flexibility for diverse targets.
Trump’s Clear Support for Netanyahu’s Defense Policies
The approval of these arms deals further strengthens the Washington-Jerusalem defense alliance, highlighting the Trump administration’s commitment to Israel’s security.
According to the DSCA statement:
“The proposed sale will enhance Israel’s ability to address current and future threats by strengthening the Israeli Air Force’s capacity to defend the country's borders, vital infrastructure, and population centers. This sale will also improve interoperability with U.S. forces and underscores the United States’ commitment to Israel’s security and military modernization.”
Political Controversy Over the Arms Sale
According to Reuters, the $7.4 billion deal was approved despite objections from some Democratic lawmakers, who urged a delay until further review of the agreement’s terms.
The Trump administration fast-tracked the approval while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was visiting Washington, bypassing the customary congressional review process. This move sparked criticism, as previous administrations had adhered to a more structured review before approving major arms sales.
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