US Approves F-35 Sale to Saudi Arabia Amid Crown Prince’s White House Visit

President Donald Trump has confirmed a major defense deal. He will sell advanced F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia. The announcement comes just before Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman‘s official visit to Washington.

This potential sale marks a significant shift in US foreign policy. It follows years of deliberation and concern over regional military balance.

US Approves F-35 Sale to Saudi Arabia

President Trump made the announcement on Monday. He confirmed the sale ahead of the Crown Prince’s scheduled White House visit. According to Reuters, the deal involves the F-35, one of the world’s most advanced aircraft.

The Crown Prince was expected to request this specific military hardware. His wish list also included formal assurances of US military protection for the kingdom. This sale fulfills a key Saudi objective.

Geopolitical Implications of the Fighter Jet Deal

The decision is not without its complications. US administrations have long been wary of upsetting Israel’s military advantage. This is a core tenet of US policy in the Middle East.

Another major concern involves technology security. Officials fear the F-35’s sensitive technology could be compromised. There are longstanding worries it could be transferred to China, which has close ties to Saudi Arabia. A similar proposed sale to the United Arab Emirates was previously derailed over identical concerns.

The timing is also critical. President Trump is currently relying on Israeli support for his Gaza peace plan. This arms deal could potentially strain those diplomatic efforts.

This F-35 sale to Saudi Arabia represents a pivotal moment in US-Saudi relations, solidifying a strategic partnership with significant consequences for the entire Middle East region.

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What are F-35 fighter jets?

The F-35 Lightning II is a family of advanced, single-engine stealth multirole combat aircraft. It is considered one of the most sophisticated fighter jets in the world, designed for ground attack and aerial reconnaissance.

Why does Saudi Arabia want F-35s?

Saudi Arabia seeks to modernize its air force and bolster its defensive capabilities. Acquiring the F-35 would provide a significant technological edge and deepen its strategic military partnership with the United States.

Why is the sale to Saudi Arabia controversial?

The sale is controversial due to concerns over regional military balance, particularly regarding Israel’s security. There are also significant fears that the jet’s advanced technology could be accessed by adversaries like China.

Has the US sold F-35s to other Middle Eastern countries?

Israel is the only country in the Middle East that currently operates the F-35. A proposed sale to the United Arab Emirates was discussed but faced significant hurdles and was not finalized.

What is the significance of the Crown Prince’s visit?

The White House visit is a high-level diplomatic engagement aimed at strengthening the US-Saudi alliance. The F-35 sale announcement underscores the strategic nature of the partnership.