As reported by Bloomberg on November 15, 2023, the United States has discreetly increased its military aid to Israel, fulfilling requests that encompass laser-guided missiles, artillery shells, night-vision devices, and bunker-buster munitions. Notably, the aid includes a request for 75 of the US Army and Marine Corps’ new Joint Light Tactical Vehicles (JLTVs).
This information is sourced from an internal Defense Department list, as reported by Bloomberg on November 15, 2023. This expands the weapons pipeline beyond previously acknowledged provisions like Iron Dome interceptors, David armored vehicles, and ammunition.
These military shipments to Israel persist even as Biden administration officials have been increasingly cautioning Israel about minimizing civilian casualties in the ongoing conflict with Hamas, which is designated as a terrorist group by both the US and the European Union.
A notable aspect of this military assistance package is the inclusion of 75 Joint Light Tactical Vehicles (JLTVs). The JLTV, intended to replace the Humvee, signifies a strategic effort to modernize military assets. According to available information, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) are reported to possess over 2,000 Humvees. Recently, a contract for the procurement of JLTVs has been executed, with delivery anticipated in the near future. This development suggests that the IDF may consider replacing its aging armored vehicles with the JLTV, aligning with practices observed in several other nations.