The United States is increasing its military presence in the Middle East by expanding its bases and boosting its weapons stockpile. It is developing infrastructure at existing military bases in Israel.
According to a report published Tuesday (July 8) by Middle East Eye, the US is constructing extensive military infrastructure in Israel. These include air bases, ammunition depots, and other military facilities. The projects have already surpassed $250 million in spending and could exceed $1 billion in the future.
Citing official documents, Israeli newspaper Haaretz reported that the US Army Corps of Engineers is seeking interested contractors for these construction projects. Although the initiative was supposed to begin in June, it was delayed due to the recent Israel-Iran conflict.
The projects involve both renovation of old air bases and construction of new hangars for fighter jets and helicopters, fuel supply centers, repair facilities, and ammunition depots. One project could cost $100 million for building fighter jet hangars and storage rooms, while the construction of a helicopter base may cost around $250 million.
Another plan involves a $100 million ammunition storage facility. Additionally, a long-term project spanning seven years for construction, repair, and infrastructure development is estimated at up to $900 million. Although the specific locations of the projects have not been disclosed, they are reportedly being carried out under the supervision of Israel’s Ministry of Defense.
A significant portion of the funding comes from the US Foreign Military Financing (FMF) program. Under this initiative, Israel receives approximately $3.8 billion annually from the United States, which is spent jointly and primarily allocated to American military contractors.
After the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks, Israel received an additional $18 billion (approx.) in military aid from the United States.
Previously, the US has invested in Israeli military infrastructure. In 2012, it secretly constructed a military base called “Site 911” at an airbase in Israel.
Meanwhile, Reuters reports that an Israeli official confirmed that during the recent 12-day Israel-Iran conflict, Iranian ballistic missiles struck several Israeli military facilities. However, the currently ongoing projects were planned before the war.
