Washington, DC, October 19 – The U.S. State Department approved a potential $24.3 billion sale of 48 F-35 Lightning II fighter jets and 49 F135 engines to Saudi Arabia, advancing the kingdom’s effort to acquire fifth-generation stealth aircraft. This formal notification to Congress follows President Donald Trump’s 2025 commitment during Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s visit, shifting the Saudi F-35 deal from political promise to a concrete Foreign Military Sales process. The package includes secure communications, electronic warfare support, software, training, and sustainment.
For the Royal Saudi Air Force, with about 350 combat aircraft including F-15SAs, Typhoons, and Tornados, the 48 F-35s would add essential low-observable capabilities. These stealth fighters would act as force multipliers using advanced sensors and data fusion to enhance fourth-generation platforms, strengthening deterrence and interoperability.
Safeguarding sensitive F-35 technology poses challenges amid Saudi Arabia’s growing ties with China involving missiles, drones, and projects, similar to concerns that stalled the UAE deal. The sale must align with Israel’s qualitative military edge, as a Saudi fleet would end exclusive access, though Israel’s customized variants maintain advantages.
The Saudi Arabia F-35 deal is taking shape but faces congressional review with possible adjustments and excludes munitions. Completion would reinforce the U.S.-Saudi strategic partnership for regional stability.