Israeli newspaper Maariv reported Friday that "Israel" has signed a deal with the US administration to purchase 12 CH-53K aircraft and two KC-46 refueling aircraft.

Israeli Security Minister Benny Gantz said the purchases are an additional and important pillar in building the strength of the Israeli army, adding that they would continue to change, grow, and adapt the air force to future challenges near and especially far from "Israel's" borders.

The Israeli Security Ministry revealed it had signed a deal with the US to purchase 12 CH-53K helicopters produced by Lockheed Marin and two KC-46 refueling aircraft by Boeing.

The newspaper reported that the total value of the deal is estimated at $2 billion.

Lapid: The US is our best friend

In September, the US House of Representatives voted overwhelmingly in favor of providing one billion US dollars to "Israel" to replenish its depleted Iron Dome missile-defense system.

Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett thanked members of the US House of Representatives from both parties for their “overwhelming support of Israel and commitment to its security."

On his part, Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid welcomed the approval of the US House of Representatives to provide aid to "Israel" and said, "Israel has no better friend than the US."