US approves potential $24.3 billion F-35 fighter jet sale to Saudi Arabia

On September 17, 2026, the US Department of State announced the approval of a potential $24.3 billion sale of 48 Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II fighter jets to Saudi Arabia. The package also includes 49 Pratt & Whitney engines, communication equipment, and support items. This decision marks a significant shift in US policy, as the kingdom has sought these advanced aircraft since early 2025 to bolster its national defense amid ongoing regional conflicts.

Historically, the US has maintained a policy ensuring Israel retains a 'qualitative military edge' in the Middle East, with Israel being the only regional operator of the F-35 for the past decade. The proposed sale has raised questions about how Washington will balance its alliance with Riyadh against this long-standing commitment to Israel. This announcement follows a separate US authorization earlier this month regarding the potential sale of over 10,000 bombs to Saudi Arabia for approximately $5 billion.

The sale currently awaits formal approval from the US Congress, as required by law. The State Department maintains that the deal is intended to enhance Saudi Arabia's ability to counter current and future threats and improve interoperability with American forces.