DefenseUS Reportedly Clears Path for Saudi Acquisition of Up to 48 F-35 Fighters
Saudi Arabia’s request to purchase up to 48 Lockheed Martin F-35 fighters has cleared a significant hurdle at the US Department of Defense, sources from Reuters said, in advance of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s scheduled visit to Washington.
The development follows a direct appeal to President Donald Trump by Saudi officials and aligns with Riyadh’s ongoing efforts to modernize its air force and address security concerns in the region.
A US official, however, stated that no final decision has been made and several additional steps are needed before any final approval is granted.
If finalized, the sale would represent a departure from previous US policy, with implications for the military balance in the Middle East. Israel remains the only regional operator of the F-35 platform.
Saudi Arabia is the largest US arms customer and has consistently sought to diversify its defense partnerships while maintaining its security relationship with Washington.
The country has sought to acquire more fighter jets in recent years, having initiated talks with Dassault for the Rafale and its rival, the Eurofighter Typhoon. The government is also reportedly interested in the Turkish 5th generation KAAN fighter jet.
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Creator of the website that started in 1996 as a magazine. He also writes on Brazilian websites AUTOO, MOTOO and MetrôCPTM.
