US Approves Sale of 48 F-35 Fighter Jets to Saudi Arabia
The U.S. State Department has approved a major arms deal for Saudi Arabia to purchase 48 F-35 Lightning II fighter jets manufactured by Lockheed Martin. The estimated value of the transaction is approximately $24.3 billion and includes 49 Pratt & Whitney engines, advanced communication equipment, spare parts, and related support items.
The State Department announced the approval, noting that the sale comes as the Kingdom has increased its involvement in the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The U.S. administration emphasized that the proposed sale of this equipment and support services will not alter the military balance in the region.
This approval paves the way for one of Saudi Arabia's most significant arms acquisitions in recent years. The F-35 jets will reportedly be sold without certain components, ensuring they do not disrupt the regional power balance.
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