Israel to Seek Security Compensation from US Over Saudi F-35 Deal

The United States has informed the Prime Minister's Office that it intends to sell F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia for $25 billion. While the Israeli military would prefer no regional countries acquire these advanced aircraft, and the first jets are not expected to reach Saudi Arabia for five years, Israeli defense officials assert that Israel maintains a significant operational advantage. This edge stems from the Israeli Air Force's extensive combat experience, integration of "Blue and White" (Israeli-made) weapon systems, a unique 'Adir' test aircraft for advanced capability development, and crucially, the expertise of its personnel.

In response to the potential sale, Israel plans to request "compensation" from the U.S. This compensation would include access to weapon systems not previously approved for sale to Israel, as well as joint development and production opportunities. Key demands reportedly focus on space-based weapon development, interceptors for the Arrow 4 and 5 missile defense systems, advanced bunker-buster munitions for deep underground targets, and autonomous systems for drone swarms and attack missions.

This development occurs as Israel faces financial difficulties in funding a third F-15 squadron and additional F-35 squadrons. Budgetary constraints and political disputes have also stalled deals for Apache attack helicopters and impacted the production of interceptors.

U.S. intelligence has warned that the sale of advanced F-35s to Saudi Arabia could lead to the leakage of sensitive technology to China. A Pentagon intelligence report examined the Chinese military's access to Saudi bases and the Kingdom's use of Chinese communication technology, casting doubt on the ability of both the U.S. and Saudi Arabia to secure the sites where the aircraft would be stationed. Similar warnings were issued in 2020 regarding potential sales to the UAE. Former President Donald Trump approved Saudi Arabia's long-standing request for the jets in November. Saudi Arabia, a major purchaser of U.S. arms, urgently seeks an aerial advantage amid its ongoing conflict with the Houthi terrorist organization.