The U.S. State Department has given its approval for a potential sale of Eitan PowerPack engines and related equipment to Israel in a deal valued at approximately $180 million, according to a Pentagon statement released Monday.
Join our WhatsApp groupSubscribe to our Daily Roundup Email
Rolls-Royce Solutions America has been designated as the principal contractor for this military sale, which represents the latest development in ongoing U.S. military support to Israel.
About the Eitan Armored Vehicle Platform
The Eitan (Hebrew for “strong” or “steadfast”) is Israel’s newest armored personnel carrier (APC), designed to gradually replace the aging M113 APCs in service with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). The Eitan represents a significant technological upgrade for Israel’s mechanized infantry forces.
The Eitan features an 8×8 wheeled configuration providing improved mobility compared to tracked vehicles. It includes advanced armor protection against various threats including IEDs and anti-tank weapons. The vehicle has a capacity to transport approximately 12 soldiers plus crew and employs a modular design allowing for different mission configurations. Among its most advanced features are active protection systems designed to intercept incoming projectiles before they reach the vehicle.
Details of the Proposed Sale
The PowerPack engines are a critical component of the Eitan platform, providing the necessary power for these heavily armored vehicles to maintain operational mobility in challenging terrain. The sale likely includes complete engine systems, spare parts and components, technical documentation, training for maintenance personnel, and logistical support services.
Strategic Context
This sale occurs amid Israel’s ongoing military operations and heightened regional tensions in the Middle East. The United States has historically been Israel’s largest military supplier, providing approximately $3.8 billion in annual military assistance.
The formal notification to Congress indicates the sale has cleared initial regulatory hurdles, though lawmakers still have the opportunity to review or potentially block the sale during a standard review period.
Industrial Impact
For Rolls-Royce Solutions America (formerly MTU America), this contract represents a significant defense sector opportunity. The company specializes in propulsion and power systems for military applications, with production facilities primarily located in the United States.
The deal highlights the continuing strong military-industrial relationship between the United States and Israel, with American defense contractors playing a key role in supplying Israel’s armed forces with critical systems and equipment.
