US Approves $24 Billion F-35 Sale to Saudi Arabia Despite Spy Concerns

The U.S. State Department approved the sale of 48 F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia on Thursday, September 17, for $24.3 billion. The deal also includes 49 Pratt & Whitney engines, communication systems, spare parts, and other equipment. The U.S. administration stated in a notification to Congress that the sale will not alter the military balance in the Middle East, but will enhance Saudi Arabia's ability to deter threats and improve its self-defense capabilities.

President Donald Trump had announced the potential sale last November, the day before meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The announcement caused concern in Israel, which has repeatedly voiced worries that selling advanced aircraft to other Middle Eastern nations could compromise its qualitative military edge. Israel had also hoped the deal's progress would be tied to normalization between Saudi Arabia and Israel.

This approval comes despite warnings from U.S. intelligence agencies, as reported by The New York Times. These agencies are concerned that China could gain access to sensitive F-35 technology through Saudi Arabia's close ties with Beijing. A Defense Intelligence Agency report, prepared before Trump's announcement, highlighted the risk of Chinese espionage, noting Saudi Arabia's significant arms purchases from the U.S. alongside its security cooperation with China, including the purchase of ballistic missiles.

The deal also proceeds amid escalating tensions involving Saudi Arabia and the Houthi rebels in Yemen. The Houthis recently seized control of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, potentially impacting Saudi oil exports. Additionally, Iran-backed groups in Iraq attacked a strategic oil pipeline used by Saudi Arabia to bypass the Strait of Hormuz blockade. Saudi Arabia had reportedly sought U.S. strikes against the Houthis, but Trump refrained. Meanwhile, U.S. diplomats reportedly received assurances from the Houthis that American vessels would not be targeted, and there are reports that Israel may be providing intelligence and advice to Saudi Arabia in its conflict with the Houthis.