The United States has given the green light to a substantial $24.3 billion sale of 48 F-35 stealth fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, a move that signifies a deepening of military ties between Washington and Riyadh. This arms deal, which aims to bolster Saudi air defense capabilities and enhance interoperability with U.S. forces, now awaits approval from the U.S. Congress.
The U.S. State Department has emphasized that the transaction is designed to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s defense posture against regional threats while ensuring it does not disrupt the military balance in the Middle East. The deal aligns with U.S. policy, which prioritizes maintaining Israel’s qualitative military edge in the region.
Saudi Arabia’s interest in acquiring the F-35 aircraft has been longstanding. However, Israel, the only Middle Eastern country currently operating these advanced jets, has expressed concerns in the past regarding their potential sale to Riyadh.
This proposed sale is part of a series of major U.S. arms agreements with Saudi Arabia, which have included the approval of sales involving thousands of bombs, tank engines, and precision rocket system equipment. These agreements underscore the ongoing military cooperation between the two nations.
The deal is expected to face scrutiny from U.S. lawmakers, particularly around issues related to the safeguarding of sensitive military technology. There are also concerns about Saudi Arabia’s expanding diplomatic and economic relationships with China, which could influence congressional deliberations.