Washington has approved a potential USD 150 million Foreign Military Sale to Israel for additional AW119Kx light utility helicopters and related support, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency has announced. The decision strengthens Israel’s light rotary-wing fleet while deepening bilateral cooperation in training, logistics, and long-term sustainment.
According to the DSCA, the U.S. State Department has authorised the proposed sale and formally notified Congress, clearing the expansion of an existing AW119Kx case that previously fell below mandatory notification thresholds. This approach allows mature defence programmes to be scaled incrementally while maintaining continuity in support and integration.
The Israeli request covers additional AW119Kx helicopters, aviation ground support equipment, supplemental certification tools, and a wide range of spare parts. It also includes engineering assistance, test and support equipment, technical publications, and comprehensive logistics services to ensure full operational integration. Training for pilots and maintenance crews, supported by U.S. government and contractor expertise, is a core component of the package, reflecting an emphasis on sustained operational capability rather than standalone aircraft procurement.
Produced by Leonardo, the AW119Kx is a militarised, single-engine light utility helicopter optimised for training and operational support roles. The “Kx” designation signifies a purpose-built military configuration rather than a civilian derivative, incorporating strengthened airframe elements, advanced avionics, and compliance with military certification standards.
The helicopter is powered by a Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6B-37A engine rated at over 1,000 shp, delivering robust performance in hot and high conditions common across Israel’s operating areas. Its digital glass cockpit—typically centred on the Garmin G1000H avionics suite—supports night-vision goggle compatibility, IFR training, and advanced navigation modes. This cockpit environment closely resembles that of modern combat helicopters, easing pilot progression to more complex platforms.
From an operational standpoint, defence analysts assess that the AW119Kx offers a balanced combination of payload, endurance, and flexibility within the light helicopter class. The aircraft’s flat-floor cabin and adaptable interior allow it to transition quickly between troop movement, liaison duties, casualty evacuation, and light logistics missions. For the Israeli Air Force, this versatility enables day-to-day utility and training missions to be conducted efficiently on a single platform, reserving larger transport and attack helicopters for higher-risk or combat-intensive operations.
