Friday, September 18, 2026

US State Department Approves Landmark F 35 Fighter Jet Package For Saudi Arabia

The US State Department approved a potential Foreign Military Sale to Saudi Arabia involving 48 F 35 stealth fighter jets valued at 24.3 billion dollars, moving the transaction to Congressional review despite intelligence assessments regarding potential Chinese espionage risks.


The State Department formally approved a potential arms package for Saudi Arabia valued at 24.3 billion dollars, covering the acquisition of 48 F 35 Lightning II stealth fighter jets and 49 Pratt and Whitney F135 engines. The proposed export agreement includes integrated electronic warfare suites, command and control systems, simulation technology, and specialized operational training for military personnel. State Department officials noted that the sale aligns with American foreign policy and national security objectives by enhancing the defense capabilities of a key non NATO partner in the region. (Read More)