US approves ’emergency’ sale of bulldozers to Israel

The US government has approved a Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to Israel for Caterpillar D9 bulldozers and related equipment, with an estimated cost of $295 million.

The sale, which includes D9R and D9T models alongside spare parts, maintenance support, and logistics services, has been authorised under an emergency determination by the Secretary of State, bypassing the usual Congressional review process.

In a statement, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) confirmed that the request includes “spare and repair parts; corrosion protection; publications and technical documentation; pre-delivery inspections; U.S. Government and contractor support; technical and logistics support services; storage; and other related elements of logistics and program support.” Deliveries are expected to commence in 2027.

The emergency authorisation, granted under Section 36(b) of the Arms Export Control Act, reflects Washington’s support of Israel’s defence capabilities. The State Department justified the decision by stating that “an emergency exists that requires the immediate sale to the Government of Israel of the above defence articles and defence services in the national security interests of the United States.”

The DSCA underscored that the deal aligns with US strategic objectives in the region, stating: “The United States is committed to the security of Israel, and it is vital to U.S. national interests to assist Israel to develop and maintain a strong and ready self-defense capability.”

The sale, they claim, is expected to enhance Israel’s ability to secure its borders, protect infrastructure, and defend its population centres.

The agency also added that “the proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.” The bulldozers, known for their use in military engineering and combat support roles, will be incorporated into the Israeli Ground Forces with “no difficulty absorbing this equipment into its armed forces.”

Caterpillar Inc., based in Irving, Texas, will serve as the principal contractor for the deal. The DSCA stated that it is “not aware of any offset agreement proposed in connection with this potential sale,” though such terms may be negotiated separately.

The US government has also confirmed that the sale will not require “the assignment of any additional U.S. Government or contractor representatives to Israel,” nor will it impact America’s own defence readiness.

While the full breakdown of costs remains subject to final agreements, the DSCA clarified that “the description and dollar value are for the highest estimated quantity and dollar value based on initial requirements. Actual dollar value will be lower depending on final requirements, budget authority, and signed sales agreement(s), if and when concluded.”