US Apache deal with Egypt deepens Israel’s concerns
Israel views the deal as a signal from the United States indicating a desire to achieve a balance of power in the region, fueling deep apprehension within the Israeli state about the potential loss of its qualitative military edge.
The United States has approved the delivery of ten advanced AH-64E Apache attack helicopters to the Egyptian army, according to Israeli reports. The deal is expected to significantly strengthen Egypt’s air capabilities, heightening Israeli concerns over Cairo’s accelerated military buildup amid rising bilateral tensions.
Enhancing offensive capacity and deterrence
The AH-64E is one of the most modern and advanced versions of the Apache, designed for precise and highly effective offensive missions. This acquisition is set to markedly improve Egypt’s ability to conduct offensive maneuvers and reinforce its deterrence posture, something that Tel Aviv is watching with serious concern.
Israel interprets Egypt’s recent arms procurements as an effort to reinforce its bargaining position and enhance its ability to deter any breaches of what Cairo defines as its “red lines”, whether related to border security or broader national security considerations.
The Israeli platform Natziv Net questioned Egypt’s ability to finance the Apache deal amid ongoing economic challenges. It suggested that Washington may be directly funding the acquisition to strengthen military cooperation and curb Egypt’s growing orientation toward Eastern arms suppliers. The platform also noted that the cost may be deducted from the annual 1.3-billion-dollar US military aid to Egypt.
Concerns over the loss of air superiority
Israel sees the deal as an indication that Washington aims to promote a regional balance of power, raising concerns about a possible erosion of its military superiority.
Israeli fears extend far beyond the Apache transaction. They encompass Egypt’s broader military modernization program, which includes major deals with France (Rafale jets, helicopter carriers) and Russia (Kamov Ka-52 helicopters). This diversification of suppliers reduces dependence on the United States and provides Cairo with greater strategic flexibility.
Helicopter fleet and strategic warning
According to the Israeli platform, the arrival of the new Apache batch will raise Egypt’s total number of attack helicopters to around 100, composed of 54 American Apaches and 46 Russian Kamov Ka-52s.
The platform noted that the AH-64E Apache is among the most powerful attack helicopters globally, thanks to upgrades including improved aerodynamics, reduced radar signature, enhanced propulsion for greater speed and maneuverability, and the Longbow radar system capable of detecting and tracking multiple targets in various weather conditions and prioritizing the most dangerous ones.
Previous Israeli military reports have warned of the growing capabilities of the Egyptian armed forces, emphasizing that the rapid modernization of Egypt’s air and naval forces represents a strategic turning point. They also highlighted Egypt’s ability to move large numbers of tanks and armored vehicles across the Suez Canal into Sinai rapidly, reviving the specter of a “strong front”, even within the framework of the peace treaty.
