OMM Redaksiyası
The US State Department has approved the potential sale of 48 fifth-generation F-35 Lightning II fighter jets and other military equipment to Saudi Arabia in a deal valued at $24.3 billion.
Operative Information Center-OMM reports that the department announced the decision in an official statement.
In addition to the aircraft, the package includes 49 Pratt & Whitney F135-PW-100 engines, advanced communications equipment, spare parts and other required supplies.
The State Department said the proposed sale would support US foreign policy and national security interests.
The agreement would significantly strengthen the security of a major non-NATO ally that plays an important role in maintaining stability in the Persian Gulf region.
Washington believes the acquisition would enhance Saudi Arabia’s ability to counter existing and emerging threats, strengthen the country’s homeland defense and improve interoperability with US and NATO forces. The department also said the sale would not upset the military balance in the region.
In November 2025, US President Donald Trump granted Saudi Arabia the status of a major non-NATO ally of the United States. The F-35 Lightning II is a multirole stealth aircraft developed by the United States and used by several allied countries.
