The US State Department approved a $24.3 billion sale of 48 F-35 stealth fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, marking the kingdom's latest major arms purchase amid regional tensions. The deal, pending congressional approval, could reshape military dynamics in the Middle East and test Washington's commitment to Israel's qualitative military edge.
Saudi Arabia, which has long sought the F-35s, has made direct appeals to US officials, including former President Trump, to modernize its air force. The sale includes 48 jets, 49 Pratt & Whitney engines, and support equipment, with the kingdom aiming to bolster its defense against Iranian and Houthi threats. The deal is part of broader defense cooperation with the US, including a $184.5 billion package announced in 2025.
The sale underscores US-Saudi defense ties, with the Saudi embassy praising the transaction as a testament to their strategic partnership. However, concerns remain about potential Chinese espionage and the impact on Israel's military advantage, with lawmakers questioning the sale's alignment with US security interests.
Israel, the only Middle Eastern country to operate F-35s, has expressed concerns about the sale to Riyadh, despite the US's emphasis on maintaining its ally's qualitative military edge. The deal also faces scrutiny over arms sales to Saudi Arabia following the 2018 Khashoggi murder, with some lawmakers wary of deepening military cooperation with the kingdom.