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23h ago

U.S. Clears Way for F-35 Sale to Saudi Arabia

The notification opens a 30‑day congressional review that could reshape regional balance by prompting strict limits on F‑35 technology transfers

U.S Air Force Senior Airman Kyle Lemanski, left, and Senior Airman Paul Sullivan, crew chiefs assigned to the 421st Fighter Generation Squadron, Hill Air Force Base (AFB), Utah, tow an F-35 Lightning II down the flight line while another F-35 Lightning II taxis during Red Flag-Nellis 24-1 at Nellis AFB, Jan. 22, 2024. This Red Flag will have approximately 30 units and close to 2,000 participants from U.S. and Allied forces. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Zachary Rufus)
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Overview

  • The State Department has notified Congress of a proposed $24.3 billion foreign military sale of 48 F‑35 jets, 49 Pratt & Whitney engines and related support, beginning a mandatory review period.
  • The package includes communications gear, spare parts and sustainment support and names Lockheed Martin and Pratt & Whitney as principal contractors.
  • The Saudi embassy in Washington welcomed the proposal, calling it a step to deepen Saudi‑U.S. defence cooperation.
  • U.S. lawmakers and Israeli officials have raised concerns about preserving Israel’s qualitative military edge and about protecting sensitive F‑35 technology and supply chains.
  • The notification does not finalize a contract and could be changed or restricted during the review, with Congress or the administration able to impose configuration limits or extra export controls.