The United States is set to approve a major defense agreement with Saudi Arabia that includes the sale of advanced F-35 fighter jets, coinciding with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s official visit to Washington. This marks the Saudi leader’s first White House appearance since the 2018 incident involving journalist Jamal Khashoggi.
The anticipated arms deal represents a significant strengthening of military cooperation between the two nations. The F-35 Lightning II, manufactured primarily by Lockheed Martin, represents the pinnacle of stealth fighter technology, with individual aircraft costing approximately $80-110 million.
Administration officials have characterized the relationship with Saudi Arabia as strategically vital. “Our Saudi partners are making substantial investments in American defense technology,” a senior administration representative stated ahead of the visit.
The proposed sale carries particular significance as it would represent the first provision of these advanced aircraft to a Middle Eastern nation beyond Israel. For decades, American policy has maintained Israel’s military technological advantage in the region through exclusive access to cutting-edge weaponry.
Regional security dynamics have undergone substantial transformation in recent years, with Gulf nations increasingly focused on countering Iranian influence. The strengthening US-Saudi military cooperation occurs against this backdrop of shifting regional alliances.
While Saudi Arabia hasn’t formally established diplomatic relations with Israel through the Abraham Accords, behind-the-scenes coordination between the two nations has increased substantially.
Beyond defense cooperation, the visit is expected to yield announcements regarding significant Saudi investment in American artificial intelligence infrastructure, reflecting Riyadh’s broader economic diversification efforts away from petroleum dependence.
The Washington visit includes formal discussions between leaders and an evening reception at the White House, underscoring the importance both nations place on reinforcing their strategic partnership.
