US State Department approves potential $24.3 billion sale of 48 F-35s to Saudi Arabia
The U.S. State Department has approved a potential $24.3 billion sale of F-35 stealth fighter jets and related equipment to Saudi Arabia, clearing a major step toward Riyadh becoming an operator of the advanced American aircraft.
The proposed Foreign Military Sale includes 48 F-35 fighter jets and 49 Pratt & Whitney F135-PW-100 engines, including one spare engine. The package also includes communications equipment, spare and repair parts, training systems and other logistical and technical support.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress of the proposed sale, which would still need to proceed through the U.S. Foreign Military Sales process before being finalized. Reuters independently reported Thursday that the State Department had approved the potential $24.3 billion sale.
According to the U.S. notification, the proposed sale would strengthen Saudi Arabia’s ability to defend itself against regional threats while improving its ability to operate alongside American and allied forces.
“The proposed sale will improve Saudi Arabia’s capability to deter current and future threats by strengthening its homeland defense, and improving interoperability with U.S. forces, and other regional and NATO forces.”
