The United States has approved a potential $24.3‑billion sale of Lockheed Martin F‑35 Lightning II fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, marking one of the largest defence deals in recent years as the kingdom becomes increasingly involved in the ongoing West Asia conflict.
The proposed package includes 48 F‑35 aircraft, 49 Pratt & Whitney engines, advanced communications systems, spare parts, and other support equipment. The US State Department said the sale aligns with Washington’s foreign policy and national security objectives, strengthening the security of a major non‑NATO ally that contributes to regional stability and economic progress in the Gulf.
Officials stated the deal would enhance Saudi Arabia’s ability to deter threats, strengthen homeland defence, and improve interoperability with US, regional, and NATO forces. It will also expand the kingdom’s air‑to‑air and air‑to‑ground capabilities, boosting its operational aircraft fleet. The department added that Saudi Arabia would have no difficulty absorbing the equipment into its armed forces and emphasised that the sale “will not alter the military balance in the region” or affect US defence readiness.
The principal contractors are Lockheed Martin Aeronautics in Fort Worth, Texas, and Pratt & Whitney Military Engines in East Hartford, Connecticut. President Donald Trump announced the proposed deal in November, a day before hosting Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the White House.
Congress will now review the proposal. If no major objections arise, detailed negotiations will proceed between the US government, Lockheed Martin, and Saudi authorities for the transfer of fifth‑generation fighters.