U.S. Approves $24.3 Billion Sale of F-35 Fighter Jets to Saudi Arabia

The U.S. Department of State has approved the sale of Lockheed Martin’s fifth-generation F-35 Lightning II fighter jets to Saudi Arabia.

Reuters reports this, citing a statement from the U.S. foreign policy agency.

The potential deal is valued at $24.3 billion and includes the transfer of 48 aircraft, 49 engines, as well as communication systems and spare parts.

The potential sale is subject to approval by the U.S. Congress, as some lawmakers have raised concerns about deepening military cooperation with Saudi Arabia.

The deal could alter the balance of power in the Middle East, as Israel has previously been the region’s only operator of F-35 fighter jets.

In November 2025, the United States announced that Saudi Arabia would be designated a major non-NATO ally.

At the time, the U.S. side also confirmed its readiness to supply F-35 fighter jets to the country.