F-35 Breakthrough: Saudi Arabia’s Request for Stealth Jets Clears Major Pentagon Hurdle

A major, multi-billion-dollar arms deal is moving forward. Saudi Arabia wants to buy up to 48 F-35 fighter jets from the U.S. This request has just cleared a key approval step at the Pentagon. The F-35, built by Lockheed Martin, is the world’s most advanced stealth jet. Sources confirm the Pentagon’s policy department completed its review. The proposed sale has now advanced to the Defense Secretary’s office. This progress happens just before a planned visit by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Saudi Arabia has been pushing for the jets for many years. They seek to modernize their air force and counter threats from Iran.

This potential sale marks a significant policy change for Washington. U.S. law requires the country to protect Israel’s Qualitative Military Edge (QME). This rule ensures Israel receives superior U.S. weapons over regional Arab states. Israel is currently the only Middle Eastern nation flying the F-35.

Though the deal cleared an internal obstacle, it faces other hurdles. It still needs a final sign-off from President Trump and formal notification to Congress. Some members of Congress remain skeptical of deepening military ties with Riyadh. Ultimately, if approved, the deal would greatly change the military balance in the Middle East.