The United States has given the green light to a substantial arms deal with Saudi Arabia, approving the proposed sale of 48 F-35 stealth fighter jets valued at $24.3 billion. This transaction, which still awaits approval from the US Congress, signifies a significant step in military collaboration between the two nations.
According to the US State Department, the sale is intended to enhance Saudi Arabia’s defensive capabilities, bolster its deterrence against threats, and improve interoperability with US forces. Despite the magnitude of the deal, US officials emphasized that it aligns with Washington’s policy to maintain Israel’s military superiority in the region, ensuring the balance of power in the Middle East remains unchanged.
Saudi Arabia has long pursued the acquisition of F-35 aircraft, a move that has previously met with resistance from Israel. Currently, Israel is the only Middle Eastern nation operating the advanced fighter jets, and concerns have been raised about the implications of their sale to Riyadh.
This proposed agreement follows a series of major arms transactions between the US and Saudi Arabia, including deals for bombs, tank engines, and advanced rocket systems. However, the introduction of these sophisticated fighter jets into Saudi Arabia’s arsenal is expected to face thorough scrutiny by US lawmakers, particularly given apprehensions about safeguarding sensitive American military technology and the kingdom’s evolving relations with China.
