The U.S. State Department announced on Thursday that it has approved a potential $24 billion sale of F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia. This move signifies a major step in U.S.-Saudi defense relations, though it proceeds despite noted concerns from defense officials and members of Congress regarding the implications of such a transfer.
The approval is part of the formal notification process required under the Arms Export Control Act, which allows Congress to review and potentially block major foreign military sales. The sale involves the advanced F-35 Lightning II stealth aircraft, a platform that has been central to debates over maintaining Israel’s qualitative military edge in the Middle East.
What the Right Is Saying
Conservative lawmakers and defense hawks generally support the sale, framing it as a critical component of U.S. strategic interests in the Middle East. Proponents argue that strengthening ties with Saudi Arabia is essential for counterbalancing Iranian influence and ensuring continued cooperation on energy security and regional stability.
Supporters note that approving the F-35 sale reinforces the U.S. position as the primary defense partner for key Gulf allies. They contend that failing to provide advanced capabilities could push Riyadh toward purchasing equipment from competitors like China or Russia, thereby diminishing U.S. influence in the region.
What the Left Is Saying
Progressive lawmakers and human rights advocates have expressed caution regarding the sale, citing concerns over the conduct of the Saudi military in regional conflicts and domestic human rights records. Critics within the Democratic caucus argue that transferring advanced stealth technology to Riyadh could alter the regional balance of power and complicate U.S. diplomatic leverage.
Advocacy groups focused on arms control and human rights have historically opposed large-scale weapons transfers to Saudi Arabia, arguing that such sales enable military campaigns in Yemen and other areas without sufficient accountability. They urge Congress to use its review period to demand strict end-use monitoring and conditions related to human rights compliance.
What the Numbers Show
The proposed sale is valued at approximately $24 billion. This figure represents the estimated maximum cost for the package, which includes the aircraft, related equipment, and support services. The F-35 is a fifth-generation multi-role stealth fighter developed by Lockheed Martin.
Under U.S. law, Congress has 30 days to review major arms sales after formal notification. While Congress has rarely blocked such sales, it has the authority to pass a joint resolution of disapproval. The sale must also navigate the legal requirement to maintain Israel’s qualitative military edge, a policy that has historically delayed F-35 transfers to other Arab nations.
The Bottom Line
The State Department’s approval moves the sale to the next stage, where it will face formal notification to Congress for review. The primary point of contention remains how the administration will address concerns about Israel’s military advantage while securing the strategic partnership with Saudi Arabia. Lawmakers will decide whether to object to the sale during the mandatory review period, which could significantly impact the timeline and final terms of the deal.