Washington: The United States has approved a potential Foreign Military Sale worth an estimated $24.3 billion to Saudi Arabia, involving 48 F-35 Lightning II fighter aircraft and a broad package of engines, weapons-support equipment, training and logistical services. The approval was announced by the US Department of State on September 17, 2026. The proposed transaction will still be subject to the US congressional review process before it can be finalised.

48 F-35 Fighter Jets Included in the Package

Under the proposed deal, Saudi Arabia would receive 48 F-35 aircraft with conventional takeoff and landing capability. The package would also include 49 Pratt & Whitney F135-PW-100 engines 48 intended for installation on the aircraft and one additional engine as a spare. The F-35 Lightning II is a fifth-generation fighter aircraft developed by Lockheed Martin. Its design combines stealth characteristics with advanced sensors, communications systems and other mission capabilities. The proposed Saudi package is therefore considerably broader than simply purchasing aircraft, with a range of supporting systems and services included in the estimated value.

Communications and Electronic Warfare Equipment

The proposed sale includes secure communications and precision-navigation equipment, along with cryptographic systems and electronic-warfare database support. Saudi Arabia would also receive aircraft and munitions support equipment as part of the package. Other components include spare parts, training equipment, simulators, software, technical documentation and logistics support. These additions are intended to provide the infrastructure and technical resources required to operate and maintain the aircraft over time. The inclusion of training and sustainment services is a standard feature of many US Foreign Military Sales, which can cover a complete defence capability rather than aircraft or equipment alone.

US Says Sale Supports Security Objectives

The US State Department said the proposed transaction is intended to advance American foreign-policy and national-security objectives. According to the department, strengthening Saudi Arabia's defence capabilities would support security and stability in the Gulf region. The department also said the aircraft would improve Saudi Arabia's ability to respond to potential threats, strengthen interoperability with US forces and improve coordination with regional and NATO forces. These statements represent the US government's stated rationale for the proposed transaction rather than an independent assessment of its future effects.

Saudi Arabia Seeks to Modernise Its Air Force

The proposed purchase comes as Saudi Arabia continues efforts to modernise its military capabilities. The kingdom already operates a range of advanced US-made defence systems and aircraft under previous American arms agreements. A deal involving the F-35 would add a new class of advanced fighter aircraft to Saudi Arabia's military inventory if ultimately completed. The aircraft are designed for multiple missions, including air-to-air and air-to-ground operations. The State Department said the proposed acquisition would enhance Saudi Arabia's self-defence capabilities and strengthen its operational aircraft fleet.

Congressional Review Still Remains

Despite the State Department's approval, the announcement does not mean the aircraft have already been delivered to Saudi Arabia. The transaction remains a proposed Foreign Military Sale and is subject to the required congressional notification and review process. US law provides Congress with an opportunity to review major foreign military sales before they are finalised. Reports on the current proposal indicate that lawmakers have a 30-day review period following formal notification.

Deal Could Have Wider Regional Significance

The potential F-35 sale has attracted attention because of the aircraft's advanced capabilities and the wider security environment in the Middle East. Reuters reported that the proposed agreement could affect regional military dynamics and raises questions surrounding the longstanding US policy concerning Israel's qualitative military edge. Israel currently operates the F-35 and is the only Middle Eastern country to have the aircraft in service. The proposed Saudi acquisition would therefore represent a significant development in the region's military aviation landscape if it proceeds.

Saudi-US Defence Ties in Focus

The announcement also highlights the continuing defence relationship between Washington and Riyadh. The United States has previously approved and implemented numerous defence sales to Saudi Arabia, covering aircraft, missile-defence systems, helicopters, armoured vehicles and other military equipment. The F-35 proposal would expand that cooperation into one of the most technologically advanced areas of US military aviation.