In the ever-evolving landscape of modern warfare, few nations have consistently demonstrated the ability to integrate cutting-edge technology with operational efficiency quite like Israel. The most recent airstrike missions carried out by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) against Houthi targets in Yemen underscore the precision and tactical sophistication of the Israeli Air Force (IAF). This article provides a comprehensive analysis of Israel’s operational capabilities, technological advancements, and strategic objectives in the broader context of the Middle East conflict. These strikes, involving a variety of combat aircraft, tanker support, and intelligence assets, not only illustrate Israel’s military prowess but also highlight its ability to engage in complex, long-range operations that have global implications.
Historical Context and Strategic Imperatives
The IDF’s military operations in Yemen form part of a broader campaign targeting Iran-backed militant groups across the Middle East. This campaign, which now extends to Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon, aims to counterbalance Iran’s growing influence in the region. Tehran has been long accused of arming and supporting proxy groups like the Houthis, using these factions to challenge Israeli interests and destabilize the region. The Houthis’ recent attempts to launch long-range missiles toward Israel have escalated tensions, prompting an intensification of Israeli airstrikes.
The IDF’s operations in Yemen are not without precedent. These strikes echo Israel’s 1985 raid on the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) headquarters in Tunis, which at the time was its longest-range combat mission. As noted by IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, Israel has demonstrated the ability to project power far beyond its borders, striking with precision across distances of more than 1,000 miles.
The current strikes in Yemen, however, represent more than just a retaliatory response. They are part of a broader strategic imperative to disrupt Iran’s supply lines and limit the ability of its proxies to strike Israeli territory. The ports of Hodeidah and Ras Issa, which have become critical transfer points for Iranian weapons, were among the targets hit in the latest raids. These attacks underscore Israel’s commitment to neutralizing strategic threats before they can fully materialize.
The Role of Israel’s Air Force in Long-Range Strikes
Central to Israel’s operational success is the integration of its diverse and technologically advanced air assets. The F-35I Adir stealth fighter jets, which played a key role in the strikes on Yemen, are a critical component of Israel’s air dominance strategy. These aircraft, equipped with sophisticated avionics and stealth capabilities, enable Israel to penetrate heavily defended airspace and strike critical targets with precision.
In addition to the F-35I, Israel’s aging fleet of F-15C/D fighters, known locally as Baz, continues to serve as a vital component of its long-range strike capabilities. Despite their age, these aircraft have been heavily modified to support both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. The F-15s involved in the recent Yemen strikes were fitted with conformal fuel tanks and armed with 2,204-pound SPICE 1000 precision-guided glide bombs, AIM-7 Sparrow and AIM-120 AMRAAM air-to-air missiles, and Elta 8222 electronic warfare pods. These modifications ensure that the F-15C/D remains relevant in modern combat scenarios, providing both air superiority and ground strike capabilities.
Image: A largely unprecedented view of the Re’em’s RVS. (IDF screencap) – image processing copyright debuglis.com
One of the most intriguing aspects of Israel’s air operations is the use of the Boeing 707 tanker aircraft, which provides essential aerial refueling and command and control capabilities. The 707, known in the IAF as the Re’em, has been a cornerstone of Israel’s long-range strike capabilities for decades. Equipped with a sophisticated satellite communications suite, the 707 enables real-time coordination between air assets and ground command centers, enhancing situational awareness and intelligence sharing.
Of particular note is the 707’s Remote Vision System (RVS), which allows the boom operator to monitor and control refueling operations using a hybrid 2D/3D interface. This system, developed by Israel many years ago, has proven to be reliable and effective, in stark contrast to the U.S. Air Force’s KC-46 Pegasus, which has experienced significant delays and operational issues with its own RVS. The success of Israel’s RVS underscores the country’s ability to develop innovative solutions to complex operational challenges.
Technical Data Table
| Technical Specification | Performance Metric | Capability | Numerical Data |
|---|---|---|---|
| F-35I Adir Stealth Fighter | |||
| Max Speed | Mach 1.6 | Stealth, Multirole Fighter | 1,200 mph (1,930 km/h) |
| Combat Range | 669 miles (1,076 km) | Long-range missions | 669 miles |
| Internal Weapons Bay Capacity | 5,700 lbs (2,585 kg) | Precision strikes, minimal radar signature | 5,700 lbs |
| Radar | AN/APG-81 AESA Radar | Long-range detection, stealth | – |
| Sensor Fusion System | DAS, EOTS, AN/ASQ-239 | Enhanced situational awareness | – |
| F-15C/D Baz Fighter | |||
| Max Speed | Mach 2.5+ | Interceptor, Air Superiority | 1,875 mph (3,017 km/h) |
| Combat Range | 1,967 miles (3,165 km) | Long-range operations | 1,967 miles |
| Conformal Fuel Tanks (CFTs) | 750 gallons per tank | Extended mission endurance | 1,500 gallons |
| Weapons Load Capacity | 23,000 lbs (10,400 kg) | Heavy multirole platform | 23,000 lbs |
| Radar | AN/APG-63(V)3 AESA Radar | Air-to-air detection | – |
| Weapons (Air-to-Air) | AIM-120 AMRAAM, AIM-7 Sparrow | Multi-target engagement | – |
| Weapons (Air-to-Ground) | JDAM, SPICE 1000 | Precision-guided munitions | 2,000 lbs (JDAM) |
| Boeing 707 (Re’em) Tanker | |||
| Max Fuel Capacity | 93,000 lbs (42,184 kg) | Aerial Refueling | 93,000 lbs |
| Combat Radius | 5,750 miles (9,255 km) | Long-range support operations | 5,750 miles |
| Satellite Communications | SATCOM | Beyond-line-of-sight comms | – |
| Remote Vision System (RVS) | 2D/3D hybrid, glasses-required | Precision refueling operations | – |
| Number of 707 Tankers | Approximately 7 airframes | Strategic aerial refueling | 7 tankers |
| Aerial Refueling System | |||
| Fueling Speed | 600 gallons per minute | Refuel multiple aircraft | 600 gallons/min |
| Boom Length | 47 ft (14.3 m) | Extended refueling range | 47 ft |
| Remote Vision System | Hybrid 2D/3D | Improved operational accuracy | – |
| SPICE 1000 (Guided Munition) | |||
| Weight | 1,000 lbs (453.6 kg) | Precision-guided air-to-ground | 1,000 lbs |
| Guidance | GPS/INS, EO/IR | Target precision | Circular Error Probable (CEP) < 3m |
| JDAM (Joint Direct Attack Munition) | |||
| Weight | 2,000 lbs (907 kg) | Penetrating bunker-buster warhead | 2,000 lbs |
| Guidance | GPS/INS | All-weather capability | Circular Error Probable (CEP) < 5m |
| Elta 8222 EW Pod | |||
| Purpose | Self-protection, electronic attack | Jamming, Countermeasures | – |
| Frequency Coverage | Full-bandwidth coverage | Counter advanced radar systems | – |
| Nachshon Oron (Intelligence Aircraft) | |||
| Max Range | 5,000 miles (8,047 km) | Long-endurance ISR platform | 5,000 miles |
| Communication Systems | SATCOM, SIGINT | Intelligence sharing | – |
| Induction into IAF | 2021 | Advanced ISR capabilities | – |
This table organizes the technical specifications, performance metrics, capabilities, and numerical data for key Israeli aircraft and technologies involved in their long-range strike operations, as of 2024.
Following the attacks in Lebanon over the past day, attached is documentation of the refueling of Adir aircraft in the skies of Lebanon and documentation of the interception of a drone by a combat helicopter:
Technological Advancements and Operational Integration
The IAF’s ability to integrate multiple aircraft types into a cohesive strike package is one of the hallmarks of its operational success. In the Yemen raids, this integration included not only the F-35I and F-15C/D but also intelligence-gathering assets such as the Nachshon Oron. This Gulfstream-based platform is equipped with a suite of sensors and communication systems designed to gather and share intelligence across vast distances. The real-time data provided by the Nachshon Oron enables Israeli pilots to strike with precision and adapt to evolving battlefield conditions.
In addition to its airborne assets, Israel has developed an extensive network of ground-based command and control centers that support its air operations. These centers, which are equipped with advanced communication systems and artificial intelligence-driven analytics, provide real-time updates to pilots and decision-makers. This integration of air and ground capabilities ensures that Israel can execute complex operations with minimal delay, maintaining a high level of operational tempo even in contested environments.
The recent airstrikes on Yemen also highlight Israel’s growing reliance on precision-guided munitions (PGMs) such as the SPICE 1000 and JDAM. These weapons, which use advanced targeting systems to home in on their targets, have become a critical component of Israel’s air-to-ground strike capabilities. The use of PGMs allows Israel to minimize collateral damage while ensuring that key targets are destroyed with minimal risk to its pilots.
Another critical aspect of Israel’s air operations is its use of electronic warfare (EW) capabilities. The Elta 8222 pods carried by the F-15s in the Yemen raids are designed to disrupt enemy radar and communication systems, providing an added layer of protection for Israeli aircraft. This electronic warfare capability is particularly important in long-range strike missions, where Israeli pilots must contend with sophisticated air defense systems.
Regional Implications and Geopolitical Considerations
Israel’s airstrikes on Yemen have far-reaching geopolitical implications, particularly in the context of its ongoing conflict with Iran and its regional proxies. By targeting Houthi infrastructure and supply lines, Israel is sending a clear message to Tehran: its proxies will not be allowed to operate with impunity. This message is particularly important given Iran’s increasing involvement in the region, from supporting Hezbollah in Lebanon to arming Hamas in Gaza.
The recent strikes also come at a time of heightened tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, following the death of Hassan Nasrallah, the group’s longtime leader, in an Israeli airstrike on Beirut. Nasrallah’s death has escalated the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, with both sides engaging in retaliatory attacks. However, Israel’s strikes on Yemen demonstrate its ability to simultaneously engage multiple adversaries across different theaters of operation, a capability that few nations can match.
In addition to its direct military objectives, Israel’s air operations in Yemen serve a broader strategic purpose. By demonstrating its ability to conduct long-range strikes, Israel is reinforcing its deterrent posture against Iran. This deterrent is particularly important as Iran continues to develop its nuclear program and expand its influence in the region. Israel’s ability to strike deep into Iranian territory, should the need arise, is a critical component of its national security strategy.
Moreover, the inclusion of a CNN journalist aboard the 707 during the Yemen strikes underscores Israel’s desire to shape the narrative surrounding its military operations. By allowing international media to witness its capabilities firsthand, Israel is not only sending a message to its adversaries but also seeking to garner support from the international community.
The Future of Israeli Air Power
Looking ahead, the future of Israeli air power is set to be shaped by several key developments, including the introduction of the KC-46 Pegasus tanker. Israel has already secured approval for the purchase of eight KC-46s, which will replace its aging fleet of 707s. These new tankers, equipped with an advanced version of the Remote Vision System (RVS 2.0), are expected to enter service by 2026.
The KC-46 will significantly enhance Israel’s long-range strike capabilities, providing greater fuel capacity and more advanced command and control systems. This will allow the IAF to operate even farther from its borders, extending its reach to critical targets in Iran and beyond.
In addition to the KC-46, Israel is expected to continue its acquisition of F-35I fighters, with plans to eventually operate 50 of the stealth aircraft. The F-35I’s stealth capabilities and advanced sensor suite make it ideally suited for penetrating heavily defended airspace, a critical requirement for any future strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities.
Another area of focus for the IAF is the continued development of unmanned aerial systems (UAS). Israel has long been a leader in the development of drones, and its UAS fleet plays a critical role in both intelligence gathering and strike operations. In recent years, Israel has begun to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into its drone operations, enabling autonomous decision-making and enhanced targeting capabilities.
As Israel continues to face a range of security challenges in the Middle East, its air power will remain a key component of its national defense strategy. The recent airstrikes on Yemen are just the latest demonstration of Israel’s ability to project power across the region, and they serve as a reminder that the IAF is one of the most capable and technologically advanced air forces in the world.
The Israel Defense Forces’ recent airstrikes on Houthi targets in Yemen underscore the country’s ability to conduct complex, long-range operations with precision and efficiency. By leveraging its advanced air assets, including the F-35I, F-15C/D, and Boeing 707 tankers, Israel has demonstrated its capacity to project power far beyond its borders and strike at the heart of its adversaries.
As tensions in the Middle East continue to rise, Israel’s air power will play a critical role in shaping the outcome of the region’s conflicts. Whether targeting Iranian proxies in Yemen or preparing for a potential strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities, the IAF’s ability to execute long-range, precision strikes will remain a cornerstone of Israel’s national security strategy.
In the years to come, the introduction of new technologies such as the KC-46 Pegasus tanker and the continued expansion of Israel’s F-35I fleet will further enhance the IAF’s operational capabilities, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of modern warfare. As Israel continues to navigate the complexities of the Middle East, its air power will remain an indispensable tool in safeguarding its national interests and securing its place as a dominant force in the region.
The Transformation of Israel’s Aerial Refueling Capabilities: Integrating the KC-46 for Strategic Dominance
In 2024, the Israeli Air Force (IAF) will witness a transformative upgrade in its aerial refueling fleet with the arrival of two KC-46 tankers. These state-of-the-art aircraft are set to replace the aging Boeing 707-based Re’em aircraft, currently operated by the 120th Squadron, known as the “Desert Giants.” This upgrade marks a significant shift in the IAF’s operational capabilities, allowing it to extend its reach, enhance mission flexibility, and maintain a competitive edge in a rapidly evolving battlefield. The integration of the KC-46 into the IAF is not just a matter of replacing old planes; it represents a major leap in technology, logistics, and strategy.
The Re’em aircraft, which have served the IAF for decades, were originally civilian Boeing 707 planes retrofitted for military use. These aircraft have been the cornerstone of the IAF’s refueling operations for over 40 years, with the average age of the fleet reaching 46 years. However, maintaining these older aircraft has become increasingly challenging due to their age and the scarcity of replacement parts. As Maj. N, the former head of acquisitions in the munitions department, explained, “The IAF is the largest operator of the Boeing 707, and it’s becoming harder to purchase replacement parts. There is less knowledge and information available about the aircraft, which makes maintaining them a resource-intensive process.”
This aging fleet requires constant maintenance and upgrading of its refueling systems, a task that has become increasingly difficult over time. The Re’em aircraft were acquired from various civilian operators, meaning that each plane has slight differences in configuration, adding to the complexity of maintenance operations. Despite these challenges, the 120th Squadron has managed to keep the fleet fully operational and mission-ready, a testament to the skill and dedication of IAF personnel.
However, the limitations of the Re’em aircraft have become more apparent as the IAF faces new operational demands. The aircraft’s fuel capacity and range, while sufficient in the past, no longer meet the requirements of modern aerial warfare. The IAF’s strategic goals necessitate a platform that can provide greater endurance, flexibility, and integration with advanced military systems. Enter the KC-46, a platform specifically designed for aerial refueling by Boeing and selected by the United States Air Force (USAF) in 2007 to replace its own aging fleet of tankers.
The KC-46 is based on the Boeing 767 airframe, a widely used and reliable platform in civilian aviation. However, the KC-46 is much more than just a modified civilian aircraft; it was developed from the ground up for military purposes, incorporating advanced refueling technology, enhanced communications systems, and self-defense mechanisms. As Maj. N explained, “The KC-46 has an upgraded cockpit and can carry more fuel due to its larger wings, which makes it a perfect fit for the IAF’s operational requirements.”
The decision to acquire the KC-46 was not made lightly. The IAF and the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) General Staff conducted a thorough analysis of four potential replacement platforms, evaluating each one based on its operational capabilities, logistical requirements, and adaptability to Israel’s unique defense needs. Ultimately, the KC-46 emerged as the best option, not only because of its advanced technology but also because of its compatibility with the IAF’s existing fleet and operational doctrines. The acquisition of the KC-46 is part of a broader effort by the IAF to enhance its long-range strike capabilities and maintain its ability to project power across the region and beyond.
One of the key features of the KC-46 is its refueling system, which includes the latest generation of the “Boom,” a long, extendable arm used to transfer fuel between aircraft. This new Boom is twice as long as the one used on the Re’em and can operate at much higher speeds, allowing the KC-46 to refuel a wider range of aircraft, including those flying at supersonic speeds. The KC-46 can also carry approximately 30% more fuel than the Re’em, while consuming 30% less, making it far more efficient in long-range missions.
Moreover, the KC-46 introduces a new level of automation to the refueling process. Once the Boom connects with the receiving aircraft, the system becomes fully autonomous, allowing for more precise fuel transfers and reducing the workload on the crew. This capability not only increases the efficiency of refueling operations but also enhances the safety of both the tanker and the refueled aircraft.
Another groundbreaking feature of the KC-46 is its ability to be refueled in mid-air by another KC-46. This capability, known as “buddy refueling,” effectively gives the aircraft an unlimited range, as it can continue to receive fuel while in flight, extending its mission endurance indefinitely. This is a game-changer for the IAF, as it allows for sustained operations far from Israeli airspace, a critical capability in the context of Israel’s strategic environment.
In addition to its refueling capabilities, the KC-46 is equipped with a suite of advanced military systems, including self-defense mechanisms, communication systems, and command-and-control technologies. These systems are fully integrated with the rest of the IAF’s platforms, allowing for seamless coordination in complex multi-domain operations. The KC-46 also features multiple Boom operator stations, enabling better training and operational flexibility, a significant improvement over the single station on the Re’em.
The KC-46’s enhanced capabilities are not limited to refueling. The aircraft is also designed to operate in contested environments, with built-in self-defense systems that allow it to evade or counter threats from enemy air defenses. This makes the KC-46 not only a refueling platform but also a critical asset in the IAF’s overall air dominance strategy. By integrating the KC-46 into its fleet, the IAF is significantly enhancing its ability to conduct long-range operations, whether for strike missions, intelligence gathering, or humanitarian relief efforts.
The introduction of the KC-46 into the IAF is part of a broader trend in military aviation, where refueling platforms are becoming increasingly sophisticated and multi-functional. No longer are these aircraft simply “flying gas stations”; they are now integral parts of complex, networked systems that enable modern air forces to operate with greater flexibility, efficiency, and lethality. The KC-46 is at the forefront of this evolution, combining the endurance of a long-range tanker with the advanced systems of a modern combat aircraft.
The IAF’s acquisition of the KC-46 also underscores the close military cooperation between Israel and the United States. The USAF was the first to adopt the KC-46, and the IAF is the first foreign air force to integrate the aircraft into its fleet. This collaboration has allowed the IAF to benefit from the USAF’s experience with the platform, as Israeli aircrews have had the opportunity to train on the KC-46 alongside their American counterparts. This partnership has not only accelerated the integration of the KC-46 into the IAF but has also strengthened the strategic ties between the two nations.
The KC-46 is expected to become fully operational within the IAF by 2025, following a rigorous integration process that includes the installation of additional Israeli-developed systems. These systems, tailored to Israel’s specific operational needs, will ensure that the KC-46 is fully compatible with the rest of the IAF’s platforms and capable of operating in the unique environment of the Middle East. As Maj. N explained, “The Israeli Air Force will install additional systems that can interact with the rest of the IAF’s platforms and are adapted to our current operational arena.”
One of the most important aspects of the KC-46’s integration into the IAF is the training and preparation of the aircrews who will operate the new platform. The IAF has invested heavily in preparing its pilots, Boom operators, and maintenance personnel for the transition to the KC-46. This includes extensive training on the aircraft’s advanced systems, as well as hands-on experience in operating the KC-46 in real-world scenarios. A key part of this training process has been the IAF’s collaboration with the USAF, which has provided valuable insights into the operation and maintenance of the KC-46.
In conclusion, the acquisition of the KC-46 represents a major milestone for the IAF. The aircraft’s advanced refueling capabilities, combined with its ability to operate in contested environments, make it a critical asset for Israel’s defense strategy. The KC-46 will allow the IAF to extend its reach, enhance its mission flexibility, and maintain a technological edge in a rapidly changing battlefield. As the IAF continues to integrate the KC-46 into its fleet, it is poised to become a global leader in aerial refueling technology, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of modern military aviation for decades to come.
Below is a comprehensive technical data table, organized with detailed, up-to-date information on the Israel Defense Forces’ (IDF) refueling operations and the transition from the Boeing 707 “Re’em” to the KC-46 Pegasus tanker. The table highlights key technical specifications, performance metrics, capabilities, and numerical data.
Technical Data Table
| Technical Specification | Performance Metric | Capability | Numerical Data |
|---|---|---|---|
| KC-46 Pegasus (Boeing 767 Variant) | |||
| Max Fuel Capacity | 212,299 lbs (96,297 kg) | Extended range aerial refueling | 212,299 lbs |
| Max Speed | Mach 0.86 (650 mph) | High-speed flight for tanker | 650 mph (1,046 km/h) |
| Range (Unrefueled) | 6,385 miles (10,280 km) | Long-distance operations | 6,385 miles |
| Cargo Capacity | 65,000 lbs (29,484 kg) | Dual cargo and fuel capacity | 65,000 lbs |
| Refueling Boom Length | 59 ft (18 m) | Longer reach for aerial refueling | 59 ft |
| Number of Boomer Stations | 2 | Enhanced training and operational efficiency | – |
| Fuel Consumption Efficiency | 30% more fuel-efficient than Re’em | Increased operational range | 30% more efficient |
| Refueling Speed | 1,200 gallons per minute | Fast, multi-aircraft refueling | 1,200 gal/min |
| Refueling Capability | Can refuel while being refueled | Infinite operational range possibility | – |
| Autonomy | Autonomous Boom after connection | Precision refueling with minimal manual input | – |
| Boeing 707 “Re’em” (120th Squadron) | |||
| Max Fuel Capacity | 93,000 lbs (42,184 kg) | Aerial refueling for long-range operations | 93,000 lbs |
| Max Speed | Mach 0.84 (600 mph) | High-speed refueling | 600 mph (965 km/h) |
| Range (Unrefueled) | 5,750 miles (9,255 km) | Long-range refueling missions | 5,750 miles |
| Refueling Boom Length | 29 ft (8.8 m) | Standard distance refueling capability | 29 ft |
| Maintenance Complexity | High due to varying airframes | Difficulty maintaining parts | – |
| Fuel Consumption | 30% more fuel consumption than KC-46 | Reduced operational efficiency | 30% more consumption |
| Refueling Systems (KC-46 vs. Re’em) | |||
| Boom Strength | 5th generation boom, capable of high speeds | Supports refueling at faster flight speeds | – |
| Boom Operator Station Location | Cockpit vicinity | Improved communication and coordination with cockpit | – |
| Refueling Speed (KC-46) | 1,200 gallons per minute | Faster refueling process | 1,200 gal/min |
| Refueling Speed (Re’em) | 600 gallons per minute | Slower refueling process | 600 gal/min |
| Additional Refueling Capability (KC-46) | Refuels while receiving fuel | Allows infinite operational range | – |
| Fuel Efficiency | KC-46 consumes 30% less fuel | Extended operational duration | 30% more efficient |
| Operational Capabilities | |||
| Aerial Refueling Range | KC-46 refuels at greater distances | Increased flexibility during missions | – |
| Autonomy (KC-46) | Autonomous Boom | Reduces manual intervention, enhances safety | – |
| Onboard Systems (KC-46) | Advanced avionics, AI integration | Automatically calculates refueling needs | – |
| Camera Systems (KC-46) | Enhanced wide-frame camera systems | Greater operational visibility for Boom Operator | – |
| Upgrade Potential | KC-46 fully customizable | Integration with IAF-specific systems | – |
Summary of Key Improvements from Re’em to KC-46:
- Fuel Capacity Increase: The KC-46 can carry approximately 30% more fuel than the Re’em, allowing for extended missions and greater operational flexibility.
- Fuel Efficiency: The KC-46 is 30% more fuel-efficient, reducing operational costs and increasing the range of missions.
- Refueling Speed: The KC-46 can refuel at 1,200 gallons per minute, double the rate of the Re’em, allowing for quicker turnaround times during missions.
- Boom Length and Strength: The KC-46’s boom is twice as long as the Re’em’s, allowing for greater flexibility in aircraft positioning during refueling and the ability to refuel at higher speeds.
- Autonomous Capabilities: The KC-46’s Boom becomes autonomous once connected, reducing the workload on the Boom Operator and improving safety during refueling operations.
- Advanced Communication Systems: The KC-46 features cutting-edge SATCOM and avionics systems, enhancing real-time communication between the tanker and refueled aircraft, critical for long-range operations.
- Training and Operational Efficiency: The KC-46 includes dual Boom Operator stations, allowing for more efficient training and operational flexibility.
This data provides a detailed technical comparison between the existing Boeing 707 “Re’em” and the incoming KC-46 Pegasus tanker. These improvements will significantly enhance the Israel Air Force’s long-range strike and refueling capabilities as it transitions to the KC-46 in 2024-2025.
