Israel to Demand Advanced US Tech Amid Saudi F-35 Deal

Following a $25 billion U.S. arms deal with Saudi Arabia aimed at balancing regional military power, Israel plans to request access to advanced technologies and munitions previously withheld by the United States. According to a report by Walla, the U.S. informed the Prime Minister's Office of its intention to sell advanced F-35 stealth fighter jets to Saudi Arabia. While the Israeli Air Force would prefer to maintain exclusive regional access to these aircraft, the first jets are not expected to reach Saudi Arabia for another five years, even if the deal is finalized soon.

Israeli defense officials are downplaying concerns, asserting that the air force's significant operational advantage will be preserved. This confidence stems from pilots' extensive operational experience, the integration of unique Israeli-made weapon systems into their "Adir" F-35s, and Israel's possession of an exclusive F-35 test aircraft, which is not even available in the U.S., used for developing advanced capabilities.

To counter the regional arms race, Israel intends to demand access to technologies and munitions such as deep-penetrating "bunker busters," autonomous strike systems, swarms of unmanned aerial vehicles, and U.S. participation in the development and production of interceptors for the "Arrow 4" and "Arrow 5" systems. Israel also seeks collaboration on space-based weaponry and other classified systems.

The potential stealth jet deal between Washington and Riyadh signifies a strategic shift in the regional balance of power, compelling Israel to re-fortify its qualitative military edge. While the air force relies on its operational experience and exclusive Israeli technologies, the defense establishment is working to leverage this development for an unprecedented "compensation" from the U.S. in the form of advanced munitions and partnership in future defense system development.