The introduction of the AH-64D (named Saraph) to Israel was controversial. The Obama administration blocked the sale of that specific version due to investigations of misuse of US military equipment against civilians. The first unit was sold in 2005 and an order of six was blocked in 2009. Most AH-64As in service with the IAF were eventually upgraded to the AH-64D variant to circumvent the blockade of sales, the upgrade plans included the improved AGM-114K Hellfire II and better fire control systems. Between 2007 and 2010, Israel put in more orders to buy the AH-64D in larger quantities, however most attempts failed due to the US investigation. Not all AH-64As were upgraded to the D variant however, but some were fitted with the American Hydra-70 and improved electronic equipment. Some AH-64Ds were used in air-to-air interception, specially against UAVs and other slow moving targets that don't need to be intercepted by aircraft.

Introduced in Update "Danger Zone", the improved Saraph comes with the same strengths as the previous AH-64A Peten. That means a good flight performance, very capable ATGMs, and excellent optics. However, the Saraph now also includes a search radar located on top of the helicopter, specifically the AN/APG-78 radar, that is operates in the K band and has all-aspect capabilities. While it's not able to lock onto targets, it is a very good option to detect enemy aircraft around you and potentially other helicopters if they are flying high over the terrain. The weapons systems remain the same as the Peten, but it now has access to the Hellfire II, with a better guidance system and higher explosive mass.