US to sell Israel 6 V-22 Osprey aircraft

The Pentagon said Tuesday that it has notified the U.S. Congress of its plan to sell six V-22 Osprey aircraft to Israel, the first foreign country to receive the advanced tilt-rotor aircraft. The 1.13-billion-U.S.-dollar package includes six V-22B Block C aircraft and associated equipment, parts, training and logistical support, the Pentagon's Defense Security Cooperation Agency said in a statement. "The proposed sale of V-22B aircraft will enhance and increase the Israel Defense Forces' search and rescue and special operations capabilities. The V-22B provides the capability to move personnel and equipment to areas not accessible by fixed wing lift assets." Pentagon officials announced the arm sale deal last year, and the required formal notification to Congress was sent on Tuesday.