US approves $24.3 billion sale of 48 F-35 warplanes to Saudi Arabia
Summary
The United States has approved a $24.3 billion sale of 48 F-35 stealth fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, aiming to improve Saudi Arabia’s defense and cooperation with U.S. forces. The sale requires approval from the U.S. Congress and has raised concerns about regional military balance and security risks related to China.Key Facts
- The U.S. Department of State approved the sale of 48 F-35 stealth warplanes to Saudi Arabia for $24.3 billion.
- Saudi Arabia seeks these jets to boost its defense and work better with U.S. military forces.
- Israel, the only Middle Eastern country currently operating F-35s, has expressed concerns about Saudi Arabia buying these jets.
- The sale must be approved by the U.S. Congress before it can proceed.
- The U.S. says the sale will not change the military balance in the region to maintain Israel’s advantage.
- Saudi Arabia has faced attacks from Iran-backed forces and Yemen’s Houthi rebels in ongoing regional conflicts.
- There are worries about potential Chinese spying through Saudi partnerships, with some U.S. lawmakers opposing the sale for security reasons.
- The U.S. has previously limited F-35 sales to close allies and removed Turkey from the program due to security concerns.
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