US approves $24.3B F-35 sale to Saudi Arabia amid China tech-theft concerns
TL;DR Summary
The State Department has approved a potential $24.3 billion sale to Saudi Arabia for 48 F-35 jets and related equipment, signaling strengthened U.S.-Saudi security ties amid regional tensions with Iran and the Houthis. Lawmakers warn that advanced tech could leak to China, citing intelligence and reports of a China-Saudi partnership; Congress has been notified. The administration says the sale would not alter the regional military balance and would bolster deterrence, and it follows a historic defense package announced during Saudi Arabia’s May 2025 visit. No shipment timeline was provided.
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- Why US plan to sell F-35 warplanes to Saudi Arabia is controversial BBC
- U.S. Intelligence Warns of China Theft Over Sale of F-35 Jets to Saudis The New York Times
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