From Malay Mail · · 1m 30s
US approves $24.3b F-35 sale to Saudi amid Iran war
US clears $24.3b sale of 48 F-35 jets to Saudi Arabia despite Israeli concerns
In brief
US clears $24.3b sale of 48 F-35 jets to Saudi Arabia despite Israeli concerns Saudi Arabia's defense upgrade faces Chinese espionage risks and congressional approval hurdles Originally reported by Malay Mail.
US approves F-35 sale
The US State Department approved a $24.3 billion sale of 48 F-35 stealth jets to Saudi Arabia, the kingdom's latest major arms purchase since the Iran war began.
“The proposed sale will improve Saudi Arabia's capability to deter current and future threats by strengthening its homeland defence”
Saudi embassy reaction
Saudi Arabia's embassy praised the transaction, calling it a reflection of the strong and enduring US-Saudi relationship.
“It reflects the strength and enduring nature of the relationship with the United States”
Israeli concerns
Israeli officials expressed worry about the F-35 sale to Saudi Arabia despite Saudi Arabia's push to normalize relations with Israel.
“The proposed sale will improve Saudi Arabia's capability to deter current and future threats”
Regional security context
Saudi Arabia has been targeted by drone and missile strikes from Iran-backed Houthi rebels in the Red Sea since the Iran war began.
“Saudi Arabia has been repeatedly targeted with drone and missile strikes by Tehran's forces”
Congressional approval needed
The sale requires approval from US Congress, with no timeline for when the jets will be delivered.
“The F-35 sale will not alter the military balance in the region”
Chinese espionage fears
US intelligence analysts warn that China could acquire F-35 technology through partnerships with Saudi Arabia.
“Our own intelligence community is warning that it could put the crown jewels of American military technology within reach of the Chinese Communist Party”
Recent arms deals
Saudi Arabia has also received $5 billion in bombs, $750 million in tank engines, and $1.96 billion in precision weapons this year.
“Washington also signed off on the sale of sixty tank engines and related equipment”
US military balance policy
The US maintains that Israel must retain a military edge over potential regional adversaries, a policy that has excluded Turkey from the F-35 program.
“The United States has so far only allowed the sales of F-35s to its closest allies”
The key point
Saudi Arabia's defense upgrade faces Chinese espionage risks and congressional approval hurdles
