Saudi Arabia hails potential F-35 deal with US
Note: AI technology was used to generate this article’s audio.
- Saudi Arabia’s embassy in Washington says a potential sale of 48 F-35 fighter jets would expand defense cooperation between Riyadh and Washington.
- The US State Department approved the estimated $24.3 billion sale, citing regional security considerations.
Saudi Arabia’s embassy in the United States said a potential sale of 48 F-35 Lightning II fighter jets to the kingdom reflects the development of Saudi-US defense cooperation and their strategic partnership.
The proposed deal, estimated at around $24.3 billion, was approved by the US State Department. Washington said the sale is intended to strengthen security for a “major non-NATO ally that is a force for political stability and economic progress in the Gulf region.”
Read more: US State Department approves potential $24.3 billion F-35 sale to Saudi Arabia
In a post on X, the Saudi embassy said longstanding security cooperation between Saudi Arabia and the United States has contributed to regional stability and strengthened the two countries’ defense capabilities.
“For decades, Saudi-US security cooperation has contributed to regional stability, strengthened our collective defense capabilities, and advanced our shared security interests,” the embassy said.
The potential sale involves 48 F-35 Lightning II aircraft, along with associated equipment and support. The proposed deal remains subject to the applicable US arms-transfer process and congressional review.
