U.S. approves $24.3 billion sale of F-35 jets to Saudi Arabia
The package includes 48 F-35 Lightning II aircraft, 49 engines and support equipment, according to the State Department.
The United States has approved a reported $24.3 billion arms sale to Saudi Arabia, including 48 F-35 fighter jets and related equipment.
The U.S. State Department has approved a $24.3 billion arms sale to Saudi Arabia that includes 48 F-35 Lightning II fighter jets, 49 Pratt & Whitney engines, communications equipment, spare parts and other support items, according to Iranian state news agency IRNA citing Reuters.
Saudi Arabia requested the aircraft from President Donald Trump earlier in 2025. Reuters reported that the deal could significantly affect the military balance in the Middle East and test Washington’s commitment to preserving Israel’s qualitative military edge.