US Congress Approves Sale of 48 F-35 Jets to Saudi Arabia
Translated & summarized from Kikar HaShabbat by baba
The US Congress has approved the sale of 48 F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia for an estimated $24.3 billion. The deal faced a procedural block attempt by Senator Rand Paul, which ultimately failed. Deliveries are expected to begin between 2030 and 2032, with full operational capability by the mid-2030s. The sale aims to enhance regional security but raises concerns about maintaining Israel's military edge and preventing technology transfer to China.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- US Congress approved the sale of 48 F-35 jets to Saudi Arabia for $24.3 billion.
- Senator Rand Paul's attempt to block the sale failed in the Senate.
- First F-35 deliveries to Saudi Arabia are expected between 2030 and 2032.
- The deal aims to enhance Saudi deterrence but raises concerns for Israel's military advantage.
- US intelligence warns of potential technology transfer risks to China.
- The sale signifies a shift from Israel's F-35 exclusivity to managed regional distribution.
The United States Congress has given final approval for the sale of 48 F-35A Lightning II fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, valued at an estimated $24.3 billion. The deal, which also includes 49 F135 engines and extensive support equipment, was formally notified to Congress by the State Department on September 17. Under US law, Congress had approximately 30 days to block the sale. Senator Rand Paul introduced a blocking resolution on September 24, but it stalled in the Senate Foreign Relations Committee without a full vote. The window for blocking the sale closed on October 17 without a successful resolution, a common outcome as significant arms deals have historically not been blocked.
The removal of this parliamentary obstacle allows the US administration to proceed with signing a letter of offer and acceptance with Riyadh, followed by contracts with Lockheed Martin and Pratt & Whitney for production and delivery. However, delivery is not immediate, with estimates suggesting the first jets could arrive between 2030 and 2032, and full operational capability taking until the mid-2030s. Factors contributing to the extended timeline include production backlogs for the F-35, the need for unique Saudi modifications, and training for air and ground crews.
The F-35 purchase is intended to enhance Saudi Arabia's deterrence capabilities against Iran and the Houthis, improve interoperability with US and NATO forces, and bolster homeland defense, according to the State Department. The US is legally obligated to maintain Israel's qualitative military edge in the Middle East. While the official announcement stated the deal would not alter the regional balance of power, analysts emphasize the need for concrete restrictions. Israel currently operates its own adapted F-35I 'Adir' version and plans to expand its fleet, while the Saudi version is expected to have limitations, including restrictions on software, advanced electronic warfare systems, and certain weapons.
Concerns have been raised by US intelligence reports about Saudi Arabia's economic, security, and technological ties with China, which could potentially grant Beijing access to sensitive F-35 technologies. Recommendations include restricting access to bases housing the aircraft to US and Saudi citizens only and removing Chinese equipment from critical infrastructure. Some members of Congress have opposed the deal, fearing it could expose American technological secrets to the Chinese Communist Party.
This sale marks a significant shift in US policy, moving away from Israel's exclusive F-35 possession in the region towards a managed distribution. The deal strengthens the US-Saudi strategic partnership but requires a delicate balance between deterring Iran, preserving Israel's military advantage, and preventing technology leakage to China.