Trump administration approves sale of F-35 jets to Saudi Arabia

The Trump administration has requested Congress approve the sale of 48 F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia for an estimated $24.3 billion. The State Department stated the sale supports U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives by enhancing the security of a major non-NATO ally. This proposed transaction comes as Saudi Arabia seeks U.S. assistance in its conflict with Yemen's Houthis, who recently claimed to have shot down a Saudi F-15 fighter jet. The administration asserts the sale will not disrupt the regional military balance, adhering to U.S. policy ensuring Israel's military advantage. The announcement follows intensified fighting in Yemen, which reportedly resulted in casualties.

The US State Department has approved the sale of 48 F-35 stealth warplanes to Saudi Arabia for US$24.3 billion. This marks a significant arms purchase for the kingdom. Saudi Arabia has expressed interest in acquiring these jets for a considerable time. Israel, which currently operates the F-35 in the Middle East, has raised concerns regarding the sale to Riyadh. The State Department stated that the proposed sale aims to enhance Saudi Arabia's homeland defense capabilities and improve interoperability with US forces, thereby strengthening its ability to deter threats.

Israel has finalized a multibillion-dollar agreement to purchase two new combat squadrons of advanced F-35 and F-15IA fighter jets from US manufacturers Lockheed Martin and Boeing. This acquisition is part of a larger program to significantly enhance the country's armed forces and bolster its security readiness for the coming decade. The deal, approved by Israel's Ministerial Committee on Procurement, aims to secure Israel's long-term military advantage and air superiority. Defense Ministry officials emphasized the critical nature of advanced air power, particularly in light of ongoing regional conflicts. The purchase includes a fourth F-35 squadron and a second squadron of F-15IA jets, reinforcing Israel's strategic relationship with the United States.

The US State Department has approved $8.6 billion in arms sales to Middle Eastern allies, including Israel, Kuwait, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. These sales were fast-tracked without congressional approval, citing emergency circumstances related to ongoing missile and drone attacks from Iran. The approved transfers include advanced precision kill weapon systems and air defense equipment like Patriot systems, aimed at replenishing depleted stockpiles and bolstering defenses. The State Department stated these sales are in the national security interests of the United States, bypassing the standard review process due to the urgent need. This follows previous arms sales totaling $16.5 billion approved in March.