US approves $24.3 billion sale of 48 F-35 stealth jets to Saudi Arabia

The US State Department formally approved a potential $24.3 billion foreign military sale of 48 F-35 Lightning II stealth fighter jets to Saudi Arabia on Thursday.

The package, which includes 49 Pratt & Whitney F135 engines alongside advanced electronic warfare and logistics support, represents the kingdom’s most significant aviation acquisition since the onset of the war with Iran.

What are the details and strategic objectives of the F-35 sale?

According to Al Arabiya English, the proposed transaction provides Saudi Arabia with 48 F-35A conventional takeoff and landing variants manufactured by Lockheed Martin. According to State Department notifications, the transfer aims to enhance Saudi homeland defense capabilities and bolster operational interoperability with American and allied forces.

Praising the decision, the Saudi Embassy in Washington stated that the agreement "reflects the strength and enduring nature" of bilateral security cooperation, which continues to advance shared regional stability. Officials emphasized that the transfer will support a major non-NATO ally without altering the overall military balance in the Middle East.

Why is the proposed deal facing scrutiny in the US Congress?

The State Department's formal notification initiated a 30-day review window during which US lawmakers can consider or challenge the transaction. While the sale addresses heightened security threats—including missile and drone attacks from regional adversary networks—several lawmakers have expressed reservations regarding potential espionage risks linked to Riyadh's economic and defense ties with Beijing.

House Intelligence Committee member Raja Krishnamoorthi voiced opposition to the transfer, citing intelligence warnings that sensitive stealth technology could be exposed to unauthorized access. Despite these concerns, the deal builds on a broader series of recent US defense approvals for the kingdom, including $5 billion in precision-guided munitions, $750 million in tank engine assemblies, and $1.96 billion in rocket guidance kits.