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The United States has approved a potential $24.3 billion sale of 48 F-35 Lightning II fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, in a major expansion of defence cooperation between Washington and Riyadh.
The US State Department said the proposed deal includes the 48 aircraft, 49 Pratt & Whitney engines, communications equipment, spare parts, training and logistical support.
The package is intended to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s defence capabilities and improve interoperability with US forces.
However, the deal is not yet final. The State Department has formally notified the US Congress, which has a period to review and potentially object to the proposed sale.
Saudi Arabia has sought F-35s for years as part of efforts to modernise its air force and counter regional security threats, particularly from Iran.
The kingdom currently operates a fleet including US-made F-15s as well as European Tornado and Typhoon fighter jets.
The F-35 is a fifth-generation stealth fighter designed to evade enemy detection and is regarded as one of the world’s most advanced combat aircraft.
Israel is currently the only country in the Middle East operating the aircraft.
The proposed sale has raised concerns in Israel over maintaining its long-standing military advantage in the region.
Washington, however, said the deal would not alter the military balance in the region and would remain consistent with its policy of preserving Israel’s qualitative military edge.
US officials have also raised concerns about the possibility of China gaining access to F-35 technology through its partnerships with Saudi Arabia, according to reports cited by AFP and Reuters.
