**US Approves Potential $24.3 Billion Fighter Jet Sale to Saudi Arabia**
The US Department of State announced on Thursday that it has approved the potential sale of Lockheed Martin’s F-35 Lightning II fighter jets to Saudi Arabia. This proposed sale, valued at approximately $24.3 billion, includes 48 F-35 aircraft, 49 Pratt & Whitney engines, communications equipment, spare parts, and other support items. This move comes as Saudi Arabia finds itself increasingly involved in regional conflicts in the Middle East.
The approval marks a significant shift in US policy regarding military sales to the region, potentially altering the balance of military power and raising questions about the United States' commitment to ensuring Israel's "qualitative military edge." This principle has historically guided US arms sales, ensuring that Israel retains access to more advanced military technology than its Arab neighbors.
Saudi Arabia has expressed interest in acquiring the F-35s for several years, with a direct appeal made to former President Donald Trump in early 2025. The kingdom aims to modernize its air force and enhance its defense capabilities, particularly in light of perceived threats from Iran. The F-35, renowned for its stealth technology and advanced combat capabilities, is regarded as the most sophisticated fighter jet globally. Israel has operated the aircraft for over a decade and remains the only Middle Eastern nation to possess this advanced weaponry.
The potential sale of the F-35s aligns with the Trump administration's broader strategy to strengthen defense cooperation with Saudi Arabia. In 2025, the US agreed to a substantial arms package with the kingdom, valued at nearly $142 billion, which was touted as the largest defense cooperation agreement in US history. This ongoing partnership reflects Saudi Arabia's status as the largest customer for US arms.
The Saudi Air Force currently operates a diverse fleet, including Boeing F-15s and European Tornados and Typhoons. The proposed acquisition of F-35s would represent a significant enhancement to its capabilities, as the kingdom seeks to bolster its defense posture amid ongoing regional tensions.
However, the potential sale is not without controversy. Congressional scrutiny may pose challenges to the deal, particularly in light of past concerns regarding arms sales to Riyadh. Lawmakers have previously raised questions about military cooperation with Saudi Arabia following the 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, and some members of Congress remain cautious about deepening ties with the kingdom.
The F-35 issue has also been linked to broader diplomatic efforts in the region. The administration of former President Joe Biden had explored the possibility of providing F-35s to Saudi Arabia as part of a comprehensive agreement that would involve Riyadh normalizing relations with Israel. However, these discussions ultimately stalled.
As Saudi Arabia continues to pursue ambitious economic and military modernization plans under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030 agenda, the kingdom is also looking to diversify its defense partnerships while maintaining its long-standing security relationship with the United States. The outcome of the proposed F-35 sale will be closely monitored, as it could have significant implications for regional security dynamics and US foreign policy in the Middle East.