IMOD, Elbit Systems Sign Deal for CH-53K Helicopter Upgrades
•February 9, 2026
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Why It Matters
Equipping the CH‑53K with advanced Israeli systems boosts the IAF's operational readiness and survivability, reinforcing Israel's strategic airlift capability.
Key Takeaways
- •Contract valued over NIS 400 million for 12 helicopters
- •Elbit provides command, avionics, EW, DIRCM systems
- •Helicopters replace aging IAF Yas’ur fleet
- •Upgrade enhances pilot safety in challenging conditions
- •Lockheed Martin assembles CH‑53K in Connecticut
Pulse Analysis
The partnership between Israel’s Ministry of Defense and Elbit Systems marks a significant step in modernising the Israeli Air Force’s heavy‑lift capability. By integrating home‑grown command‑and‑control, avionics, electronic‑warfare and DIRCM technologies into the CH‑53K platform, Israel ensures that its new fleet can operate effectively in the region’s complex threat environment. This indigenous approach not only reduces reliance on foreign upgrades but also aligns the helicopters with the IAF’s specific tactical doctrines, such as rapid hazard detection and precision landing zone identification.
From a strategic perspective, the CH‑53K “Pereh” will replace the long‑servicing Yas’ur helicopters, ending a decade‑long reliance on aging airframes. The upgrade’s emphasis on pilot safety and mission survivability reflects broader trends in military aviation, where electronic‑warfare and missile‑defence systems are becoming standard. The integration process, conducted at a purpose‑built Israeli facility, showcases Elbit’s growing expertise in complex system integration and positions the company as a key supplier for future defense projects, both domestically and abroad.
Economically, the NIS 400 million contract underscores the scale of Israel’s defence procurement and its commitment to supporting local high‑tech industries. The deal also complements a previous $55 million Elbit contract for Black Hawk and Apache upgrades, indicating a sustained pipeline of avionics and protection solutions for the IAF. For Lockheed Martin‑Sikorsky, the arrangement secures a high‑profile customer for its CH‑53K platform, while Israel gains a tailored, battle‑ready heavy‑lift asset that can project power and provide humanitarian assistance across diverse operational theatres.
IMOD, Elbit Systems sign deal for CH-53K helicopter upgrades
Israel signs contract with Elbit Systems to equip CH‑53K “Pereh” helicopters
The Israel Ministry of Defense (IMOD) has signed a contract worth more than NIS 400 million ($130 million) with Elbit Systems to equip 12 new CH‑53K “Pereh” helicopters for the Israeli Air Force (IAF) with Israeli‑developed command and control, avionics, electronic warfare, and DIRCM anti‑missile systems.
The Deputy Director of the Defense Procurement Directorate (DPD) for Air and Sea Procurement is overseeing the agreement.
The installation of these Israeli systems is intended to support flight operations in difficult conditions and assist pilots with hazard detection and identifying safe landing zones.
After assembly is completed, the aircraft will be transferred to a dedicated facility established specifically for fitting these Israeli technologies according to operational requirements defined by the Israeli Air Force.
The new helicopters are intended to replace the IAF’s ageing “Yas’ur” fleet. Lockheed Martin‑Sikorsky is currently assembling the CH‑53K helicopters in Connecticut, USA.
These aircraft were ordered through a previously signed Foreign Military Sales agreement between IMOD and the US government.
Elbit Systems president and CEO Bezhalel (Butzi) Machlis said:
“We are honoured to take part in the flagship project to upgrade the helicopter fleet and to support the complex needs of the Air Force, through Elbit’s most advanced systems, which will be integrated into the new CH‑53K helicopters.
“These systems, representing the forefront of Elbit’s proven technology, are tailored to the Air Force’s requirements and provide an optimal advanced technological envelope for mission execution and for ensuring pilot safety.”
In May last year, Elbit Systems was awarded a contract valued at $55 million (NIS 195 million) to supply advanced protection solutions for IAF Black Hawk and Apache helicopters.
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