WASHINGTON: The US State Department has approved a potential $24.3 billion sale of 48 F-35 Lightning II fighter jets and related equipment to Saudi Arabia, according to a congressional notification issued on Thursday.
“The US Department of State has made a determination approving a possible foreign military sale to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for their purchase of F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter and related equipment. The estimated total cost is $24.3 billion,” the State Department said.
The proposed sale includes 48 F-35 fighter jets and 49 Pratt & Whitney F135 engines, along with associated equipment, training and logistical support, according to the US State Department.
The State Department said the sale would strengthen Saudi Arabia’s ability to deter current and future threats, bolster its homeland defence and improve interoperability with US and other allied forces.
It added that the proposed sale would enhance the Kingdom’s air-to-air and air-to-ground capabilities and would not alter the military balance in the region.
US President Donald Trump had announced in November 2025 that Washington intended to sell F-35s to Saudi Arabia. The potential sale would mark the first delivery of F-35s to Saudi Arabia.
