World · India Bureau
US approves $24.3 billion F-35 fighter jet sale to Saudi Arabia
The United States has greenlit the sale of advanced F-35 combat aircraft to Saudi Arabia in a major defence deal valued at $24.3 billion. The approval comes amid escalating tensions between Riyadh and Houthi insurgents in Yemen.
LSN India ·
The US State Department has authorized the sale of F-35 Lightning II fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, marking a significant strengthening of military ties between Washington and the Gulf kingdom. The defence package, valued at $24.3 billion, represents one of the largest military sales to the region in recent years.
The timing of the approval underscores growing security concerns in the Arabian Peninsula, where Saudi Arabia faces mounting threats from Yemen-based Houthi rebels. The Iranian-aligned militant group has conducted repeated drone and missile attacks on Saudi territory, prompting Riyadh to seek advanced air defence and offensive capabilities.
The F-35 fighters are expected to modernize Saudi Arabia's air force and enhance its operational capabilities in regional conflicts. The sale also reinforces the strategic partnership between Washington and Riyadh, particularly as tensions persist in the Gulf region.
The defence package includes aircraft, support systems, and training components. US defence contractors and allied vendors are expected to benefit significantly from the multi-year implementation of the contract.
The sale reflects broader US policy objectives in the Middle East, where maintaining strong military partnerships with key Gulf allies remains a cornerstone of regional strategy amid ongoing geopolitical complexities.