US Clears Way for $24.3 Billion F-35 Sale to Saudi Arabia
The United States has cleared the way for a potential F-35 sale to Saudi Arabia worth $24.3 billion, with the State Department approving the proposed transfer of 48 Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II fighter jets and related equipment. The deal still requires congressional approval and could have implications for the military balance in the Middle East.
According to a report by Reuters, the proposed package includes 48 F-35 aircraft, 49 Pratt & Whitney F135 engines, communications equipment, spare parts and other support. The State Department has notified Congress, which must review the proposed sale.
What Happened
The State Department approved the potential sale on September 17, 2026, after Saudi Arabia had sought access to the advanced U.S.-made fighter jets for more than a y...
