The US administration has taken a significant step toward Saudi Arabia’s long-standing bid to purchase F-35 fighter jets. The US State Department approved a potential Foreign Military Sales package, estimated at $24.3 billion, covering the sale of 48 F-35 Lightning II fighter jets and related equipment to Riyadh.
The package includes 48 F-35s and 49 engines
The sales package includes 48 conventionally configured F-35s and 49 Pratt & Whitney F135-PW-100 engines. Forty-eight engines will be installed in the aircraft, while one will be delivered as a spare.
The package also includes communications and electronic warfare systems, training services, simulators, spare parts and logistics support.
Lockheed Martin, the manufacturer of the F-35, and Pratt & Whitney, the engine manufacturer, are expected to serve as the main contractors for the sale.
The sale will go to Congress for review
The State Department’s approval does not mean that the fighter jets will be delivered to Saudi Arabia immediately. Following the decision, the sales process will proceed to review by the US Congress, and the required procedures must continue for the agreement to be finalized.
An important step for Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia’s interest in purchasing the F-35 has long been one of the key issues in defense talks between Washington and Riyadh.
The F-35 sale had been the subject of debate in Washington, particularly because of the US policy of preserving Israel’s “Qualitative Military Edge” in the region. During the review process before Congress, issues such as regional military balances and the protection of advanced F-35 technology are also expected to arise.
If the necessary stages of the sale are completed, Saudi Arabia will join the countries operating an F-35 fleet.
