US approves $24.3B F-35 sale to Saudi Arabia amid China tech-theft concerns
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.