The United States has authorized the sale of AGM-114 Hellfire missiles to Israel, valued at $660 million. This agreement encompasses 3,000 air-to-ground missiles, providing the Israeli military with a selection of variants, including R3, F, F/A, K1, K1A, K2, K3, K3A, KA, N, N3, and R. This acquisition significantly enhances Israel’s strike capabilities for future military engagements.

In addition to the missiles, the package includes spare parts, testing equipment, technical assistance, training, software solutions, and logistics support. Deliveries are anticipated to commence in 2028.

The U.S. has consistently upheld robust military relations with Israel, and this transaction further underscores its commitment to this vital ally in the Middle East. By bolstering Israel’s air force, the deal aims to safeguard its borders and critical infrastructure while improving interoperability with U.S. military forces.

The Pentagon asserts that this sale will not disrupt the existing military equilibrium in the region. Israel already boasts a formidable array of precision weaponry, and the addition of the AGM-114 Hellfire will further enhance its combat effectiveness.

Lockheed Martin Corporation, located in Troy, Alabama, is the primary contractor for this order. While details regarding potential offset agreements remain undisclosed, negotiations are expected to take place between Israel and the company. The U.S. will not send additional personnel to Israel, apart from those required for technical support and crew training as necessary.

In the long term, this agreement solidifies Israel’s status as one of the most advanced military forces in the region and highlights the U.S. commitment to maintaining robust support for its strategic ally.

The Israeli military operates several platforms capable of deploying the AGM-114 Hellfire missile. Among these, the AH-64 Apache attack helicopter stands out as a key asset for the Israeli Air Force, providing essential close air support and anti-armor operations. The Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk, utilized in special operations and utility missions, can also be equipped to launch Hellfire missiles during combat scenarios.

Moreover, the Hermes 450 and Hermes 900 unmanned aerial vehicles, integral to Israeli reconnaissance and strike operations, can be armed with Hellfire missiles for precise targeting. These capabilities enable Israel’s armed forces to effectively incorporate and deploy the new missiles across various combat situations.

The AGM-114 Hellfire is a series of air-to-surface missiles developed by Hughes Aircraft, now part of Raytheon. Originally intended for anti-tank purposes, it has transformed into a versatile weapon system with multiple variants designed for diverse targets and launch platforms.

This missile is extensively utilized by the U.S. military and numerous allied forces globally. While its primary role is to neutralize armored vehicles, it has also been modified for engagement against structures, personnel, and other high-value targets.

The AGM-114A, the initial variant of the Hellfire missile, was introduced in the late 1980s. It utilized a semi-active laser guidance system, enabling the missile to track targets illuminated by a laser designator. With its robust warhead and sophisticated guidance technology, the Hellfire proved effective against even the most heavily armored targets, making it a valuable asset in contemporary combat situations.

As time progressed, multiple variants of the Hellfire missile were developed, enhancing its operational capabilities. The AGM-114B brought improvements to both the warhead and guidance system, while the AGM-114C and AGM-114K featured additional upgrades to boost accuracy and range. These newer versions also offered enhanced compatibility with various targeting systems.

The AGM-114 Hellfire has been deployed from a range of platforms, including helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), fixed-wing aircraft, and ground vehicles. The Apache AH-64 helicopter serves as one of the primary launch platforms, equipped with an advanced targeting system that enables it to engage targets at long distances.

Additionally, the MQ-1 Predator and MQ-9 Reaper drones, operated by the U.S. Air Force, are capable of carrying the Hellfire missile, allowing for precise remote engagement of targets.

A notable advancement in the Hellfire series is the AGM-114R, referred to as the Hellfire Romeo. This variant is a versatile, multi-purpose missile that features a modified guidance system, enabling it to target a broader array of threats.

The missile incorporates both semi-active laser homing and an infrared guidance system, enhancing its versatility and enabling it to accurately target both stationary and moving objects. This iteration also features improved range and lethality, positioning it as one of the most adaptable missiles within the Hellfire series.

Equipped with a tandem-charge warhead, the Hellfire missile is specifically designed to penetrate heavily armored targets, capable of striking the top and sides of enemy vehicles where armor is generally less robust. Certain variants, such as the AGM-114L, utilize a laser-guided imaging infrared seeker, increasing their effectiveness against a broader spectrum of targets.

These capabilities have established the Hellfire missile as a crucial asset in counter-terrorism efforts, with extensive deployment in contemporary conflicts, particularly in the Middle East and Afghanistan.

Regarding its performance, the Hellfire missile generally has a range of about 8 kilometers (5 miles) when launched from an aircraft, although this may vary based on the specific variant and launch platform.

The missile can achieve speeds of up to 1,000 km/h (620 mph) and is capable of engaging targets with remarkable precision. Its compact size and high maneuverability make it ideal for precision strikes in urban settings and intricate battlefields.

In addition to the standard variants, there are specialized models of the AGM-114 Hellfire, such as the AGM-114P, tailored for maritime targets, and the AGM-114N, which is equipped with a thermobaric warhead for use against soft targets, bunkers, and caves. These specialized versions highlight the Hellfire missile family’s adaptability to various combat situations and target types.

The missile’s guidance systems have undergone continuous enhancements, particularly with the incorporation of advanced technologies like GPS and inertial navigation systems, which have improved its performance and allowed for increased stand-off distances and accuracy.

The addition of multi-targeting features enhances the Hellfire’s effectiveness in coordinated operations, allowing for the engagement of several targets with exceptional precision during a single mission.

In summary, the AGM-114 Hellfire missile stands out as a highly efficient and versatile weapon that has undergone ongoing enhancements since its inception. Its diverse models and capabilities ensure its status as a crucial component in contemporary warfare, providing both flexibility and accuracy for various military uses.

Whether deployed in counter-terrorism, anti-armor, or naval operations, the Hellfire missile’s wide array of variants renders it an essential asset for military forces around the globe.