US State Department Approves Massive F-35 Sale to Saudi Arabia
Translated & summarized from i24NEWS Arabic by baba
The U.S. State Department has approved a $24 billion sale of 48 F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, pending congressional approval. The deal aims to bolster Saudi defenses but has raised concerns among U.S. intelligence agencies about potential Chinese espionage.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- US State Department approves sale of 48 F-35 jets to Saudi Arabia.
- The deal is valued at approximately $24 billion and needs congressional approval.
- Jets will be sold without components allowing Saudi modifications.
- US cites Saudi defense needs and regional coordination.
- US intelligence fears Chinese espionage related to the deal.
The U.S. State Department announced Thursday its approval of a significant arms deal for Saudi Arabia, clearing the way for the potential sale of 48 F-35A fighter jets. The proposed transaction is valued at approximately $24 billion and still requires congressional approval.
Under the terms of the deal, the F-35s would be sold to Saudi Arabia without certain components, preventing the Kingdom from making modifications to the aircraft's systems. The State Department justified the sale by citing the need to enhance Saudi Arabia's deterrence and self-defense capabilities amid escalating tensions with the Houthis and to improve operational coordination with U.S. and NATO forces.
U.S. officials stated that the deal would not disrupt the military balance in the region and would not negatively impact American military readiness or necessitate the deployment of additional U.S. personnel to Saudi Arabia. The department also conveyed a message of reassurance to Israel regarding the transaction.
However, reports emerged Thursday that U.S. intelligence agencies have expressed concerns about potential Chinese espionage linked to the F-35 sale. Intelligence analysts have raised the possibility that China could acquire F-35 technology through espionage in Saudi Arabia or via its existing military and security partnership with the Kingdom.
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