Inside The IDF’s New Boeing KC-46 Pegasus Arrival

The Boeing KC-46i Pegasus, the first refueling and transport aircraft of its kind in the Israeli Air Force, landed on Wednesday May 28, at Nevatim Airbase. The aircraft was received by the newly established refueling squadron, “HaGideon” (46), marking a significant milestone in strengthening the Air Force’s long-range operational capabilities.

The arrival of the aircraft follows years of preparation. Although the agreement to procure it was signed several years ago, extensive upgrades were required before it could be stationed in Israel. 

Nevatim Airbase underwent massive infrastructure renovations, operating around the clock, even during ongoing combat operations, in close cooperation with the United States to ensure the base could safely accommodate such a large and heavy aircraft. With these preparations complete, the first aircraft has now arrived, with a total of six expected in the coming years. The aircraft is a strategic force multiplier. It significantly enhances operational range, flexibility, and independence in distant arenas. Refueling aircraft are among the most critical assets in any modern air force, enabling fighter jets to extend their range far beyond their organic fuel capacity. Without them, long-distance missions, such as those requiring sustained operations thousands of kilometers from Israel would not be possible.

The Boeing KC-46i Pegasus combines aerial refueling, transport, and medical evacuation capabilities in a single platform. It can carry over 200,000 pounds of fuel–approximately 15% more than the current Boeing 707 Re'em fleet–and, due to lower self-consumption, can perform around 50% more refueling operations. 

The aircraft is capable of refueling multiple aircraft simultaneously, including two fighter jets at once, using both an advanced boom system with digital 3D vision and hose-and-drogue systems compatible with a wide range of platforms.

Beyond refueling, it offers significant transport capabilities. It can carry more than 30 tons of cargo while simultaneously transporting personnel and equipment. Fuel is stored in dedicated wing and fuselage tanks beneath the deck, allowing the upper deck to remain fully available for operational use without compromising refueling performance. This multi-mission capability enables the aircraft to support a wide range of operations, from combat missions to humanitarian and medical evacuation efforts.

The Gideon is based on the Boeing 767 airframe and incorporates advanced avionics and Israeli systems, further enhancing its performance and adaptability. Compared to legacy platforms, some of which date back decades, it represents a significant technological leap, including improved efficiency and reduced environmental impact.

“HaGideon” Squadron (46), established at Nevatim Airbase to absorb the new aircraft, is expected in the future to merge with the Desert Giants Squadron and lead the Air Force’s refueling and transport array.

With its ability to sustain aircraft in the air for extended durations, refuel a significantly larger number of fighter jets, and operate across vast distances, the Gideon marks a new era for the Israeli Air Force. As more aircraft are delivered and integrated into operational service, the scope, reach, and endurance of Israel’s aerial operations will expand accordingly, reshaping what is possible and setting the stage for a much broader operational playing field.

“The landing of the ‘Gideon,’” said the Commander of Nevatim Airbase (28), Brigadier General D., “a fifth-generation strategic platform, during an intense and prolonged war, while IDF soldiers are deployed across seven arenas fighting to defend Israeli civilians, is a historic, challenging, and deeply moving moment. Absorbing such a platform during wartime involves even greater challenges, but the cooperation between all bodies–industries, IDF units, the Ministry of Defense, and the Air Force, overcomes them all.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the KC-46i Pegasus?
A: The KC-46i Pegasus is a refueling and transport aircraft capable of aerial refueling, cargo transport, and medical evacuation in a single platform.

Q: How does aerial refueling impact operations?
A: It allows fighter jets to extend their range far beyond their fuel limits, enabling long-distance missions that would otherwise not be possible.

Q: How many Pegasus aircraft will Israel receive?
A: A total of six aircraft are expected.

Q: What makes the KC-46i more advanced than previous aircraft?
A: It carries more fuel, performs more refueling operations, and includes advanced systems like digital 3D vision and multi-platform compatibility.

Q: What is the role of “HaGideon” Squadron (46)?
A: It was established to operate the new aircraft and is expected to lead the Air Force’s refueling and transport operations in the future.