SRINAGAR: The US State Department has approved a possible sale of 48 F-35 Lightning II fighter jets and related equipment to Saudi Arabia in a deal estimated at $24.3 billion.
The proposed Foreign Military Sale also includes 49 engines and associated equipment and support, according to the State Department’s notification. The proposed transaction still requires congressional approval.
The State Department said the proposed sale would support US foreign policy and national security objectives by strengthening Saudi Arabia’s ability to deter threats to its security. It said the package would also promote greater cooperation between Saudi Arabia’s armed forces, the US military, regional partners and NATO forces.
According to the department, the proposed transaction would not alter the military balance in the region or adversely affect US defence readiness.
The potential F-35 deal had emerged as an issue in 2025, amid questions over the implications of Saudi Arabia acquiring the aircraft for Israel’s established military advantage in the Middle East. Israel is currently the only country in the region operating the F-35, according to reporting on the proposed sale.
US President Donald Trump said in November 2025 that Washington would permit Saudi Arabia to purchase the aircraft following a meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, during which the two sides signed a series of diplomatic agreements.
The latest State Department approval moves the proposed sale into the congressional review process, but does not by itself complete the transaction.
