The US government has cleared the possible sale of over $2 billion-worth of bombs for Israel, including precision guidance kits.
The possible sales are divided among two Foreign Military Sales (FMS) cases outlined by the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA). The move comes after the clearance of another potential Israeli bomb sale earlier in February.
One package, worth an estimated $2.04 billion, covers over 35,900 MK 84 or BLU-117 907kg (2,000lb) bombs, as well as 4,000 I-2000 penetrator warheads.
Also included are logistics and technical support, with deliveries expected in 2026.
According to the DSCA announcement, the Secretary of State deems that a “state of emergency exists” that requires an “immediate sale” and the waiving of congressional review.
Then-US President Joe Biden had held up the provision of 907kg bombs to Israel, but his successor Donald Trump has a more favourable view towards arms sales to the Middle Eastern nation.
“The United States is committed to the security of Israel, and it is vital to US national interests to assist Israel to develop and maintain a strong and ready self-defence capability,” says the DSCA.
“This proposed sale is consistent with those objectives. The proposed sale will improve Israel’s capability to meet current and future threats, strengthen its homeland defence, and serve as a deterrent to regional threats. Israel will have no difficulty absorbing this equipment into its armed forces.”
In a separate FMS case, also citing an “emergency situation”, the DSCA outlines the possible sale of thousands of additional bombs, including 5,000 Joint Direct Attack Munition guidance kits.
It values this possible package at $676 billion, with deliveries to start in 2028.
The early-February package was valued up to $6.08 billion and covered thousands of bombs of various sizes, including 2,160 GBU-39/B Small Diameter Bombs Increment 1, as well as 2,800 Mk82 226kg bombs, 13,000 Joint Direct Attack Munition guidance kits, as well as other precision weapons and equipment.
