Saudi Arabia has pursued the acquisition of F-35 fighter jets for several years, and recent developments indicate a significant milestone in that endeavor. On September 17, 2026, the U.S. State Department approved a potential sale of 48 F-35 Lightning II aircraft to Saudi Arabia, valued at approximately $24.3 billion. This comprehensive package also includes 49 Pratt & Whitney engines, communication equipment, spare parts, and ongoing support services. However, while the approval represents a substantial step forward, it is essential to note that Congress must still review and approve the sale.
Details of the Proposed Sale
The proposed sale consists of 48 F-35 units and 49 engines, which effectively means the Saudi Air Force will have one spare engine, given that the F-35 is a single-engine fighter. This arrangement suggests that the purchase is intended as an initial batch rather than a large-scale fleet acquisition. To put it into perspective, 48 fighters equate to roughly two squadrons—sufficient to bolster Saudi capabilities but not enough to dramatically alter the balance of power in the region.
Currently, the Royal Saudi Air Force (RSAF) operates a diverse fleet that includes advanced Boeing F-15s, European Tornadoes, and Eurofighter Typhoons. The addition of the F-35 would mark the RSAF’s first foray into stealth technology and fifth-generation aircraft, enhancing its operational flexibility and combat effectiveness.
Geopolitical Considerations
The approval of the F-35 deal is not without controversy. Historically, U.S. arms sales in the Middle East have been evaluated against the principle of maintaining Israel’s qualitative military edge. This means that Israel should have access to more advanced weaponry than its neighbors. Given that Israel has been flying the F-35I Adir for a decade, the prospect of Saudi Arabia receiving similar capabilities raises significant concerns among Israeli officials, particularly as U.S. efforts to normalize relations between Riyadh and Tel Aviv continue.
Additionally, reports from U.S. intelligence analysts have suggested that Beijing may gain access to F-35 technology through its partnerships with Saudi Arabia. While this concern has not been publicly substantiated by the government, it is the kind of issue that could weigh heavily in the congressional review process.
Saudi Position on the Approval
In response to the approval from the U.S. State Department, the Saudi embassy in Washington expressed its satisfaction, highlighting that this sale reflects the enduring strategic partnership between Saudi Arabia and the United States. The kingdom has been a major purchaser of American arms, and the Defense Cooperation Agreement worth nearly $142 billion solidifies its position as a significant player in America’s defense market. Saudi leaders initially appealed for the F-35 during President Donald Trump’s administration, and there has been a consistent push for deeper defense cooperation since then.
The Path Ahead: Congressional Review
While the State Department’s approval marks progress, the last hurdle lies in Congress. Lawmakers have historically delayed arms sales to Saudi Arabia, especially following the high-profile murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018. Skepticism regarding military ties with Saudi Arabia remains, suggesting that the review process may not be straightforward.
Even if Congress grants its approval, potential deliveries of the F-35s are years away. Manufacturing timelines, pilot training, and the establishment of necessary infrastructure mean that the acquisition will not have immediate benefits. However, a crucial shift has occurred: the previously opposing winds have subsided, and the once-closed door has begun to open. The approval signifies a newfound willingness to engage in a dialogue surrounding arms sales, setting the stage for what could be a transformative chapter in U.S.-Saudi relations.