US State Department approves sale of 48 F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia
The US State Department has approved the sale of 48 fifth-generation F-35 Lightning II fighters and other military equipment to Saudi Arabia. The deal, which still needs congressional approval, is estimated at $24.3 billion.
The US State Department has approved the sale of 48 fifth-generation F-35 Lightning II fighters and other military equipment to Saudi Arabia. The deal, which still needs congressional approval, is estimated at $24.3 billion. Congressmen have 30 days to study and agree on the deal.
“The proposed sale will improve Saudi Arabia’s ability to deter current and future threats by strengthening the country’s defenses and increasing interoperability with U.S. forces,” the State Department said.
In addition to fighter jets, Riyadh has requested the supply of 49 F135-PW-100 aircraft engines, secure communications, navigation and encryption devices. The contractors will be privately held by Lockheed Martin and Pratt & Whitney.
