US approves sale of 48 F-35 jets to Saudi Arabia

The United States has authorized a $24.3 billion sale of 48 F-35 stealth fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, according to the State Department. This marks one of the kingdom's most significant arms purchases since the inception of the Iran conflict. Despite Saudi Arabia's longstanding desire to acquire F-35s, Israeli officials have expressed apprehension about the transaction, even as the U.S. seeks to normalize relations between the two nations.

The State Department stated that the proposed sale will bolster Saudi Arabia's ability to counter current and future threats, enhance its defense capabilities, and improve interoperability with U.S. forces. Additionally, it will expand Saudi Arabia's operational aircraft and bolster its air-to-air and air-to-ground self-defense systems.

The Saudi embassy in Washington hailed the deal, emphasizing the long-standing relationship between the two countries and highlighting how security cooperation has bolstered regional stability and strengthened collective defense efforts. Since February, when the United States and Israel initiated their war against Iran, Saudi Arabia has faced repeated drone and missile strikes by Tehran's forces, as well as attacks from Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels.

The civil war in Yemen, which had been dormant for years, reignited in July, with the Houthis declaring a maritime blockade of Saudi Arabia and targeting its ships in the Red Sea. Although Washington has not directly intervened in the conflict, a U.S. official revealed that a military task force is working on enhancing intelligence sharing and planning assistance for Saudi forces.

Congressional approval is required for the sale, and the State Department has informed lawmakers about the proposed transaction. The F-35 sale, however, will not affect the regional military balance, as per longstanding U.S. policy that Israel must maintain a military edge over potential adversaries. The U.S. has only permitted F-35 sales to its closest allies, including various NATO members and Israel.

Concerns have been raised about potential Chinese espionage related to the jets, with U.S. intelligence analysts warning that Beijing might acquire F-35 technology through its partnerships with Riyadh. Other recent arms deals by Saudi Arabia include a $5 billion purchase of over 10,000 bombs, $750 million worth of tank engines, and a $1.96 billion agreement in July for the kingdom to acquire guidance sections that can convert rockets into precision weapons.