According to the Saudi Gazette, the United States Department of State has officially notified Congress of a potential $24.3 billion sale of 48 F-35 Lightning II fighter jets to Saudi Arabia. This proposed agreement, which follows a direct request from the Kingdom to President Donald Trump in early 2025, represents a significant development in the strategic defense partnership between the two nations.
The proposed package includes not only the 48 aircraft but also 49 Pratt & Whitney F135 engines, alongside comprehensive training, logistical support, and associated equipment. The State Department stated that the sale is intended to bolster Saudi Arabia’s homeland defense capabilities, improve interoperability with US and allied forces, and enhance the Kingdom's air-to-air and air-to-ground operational reach.
This notification marks a formal step in the procurement process, which was previously signaled by President Trump in November 2025. If finalized, the deal would introduce the advanced F-35 platform to the Saudi Air Force for the first time. The State Department emphasized that the sale is designed to strengthen the Kingdom's ability to deter regional threats without disrupting the broader military balance in the Middle East.
The story is reported by a credible regional outlet and details a specific, procedural government notification regarding a major defense deal. While not yet corroborated by international wire services in the provided baseline, the report is internally consistent and aligns with the broader context of US-Saudi defense relations.
No corroborating trusted sources found.
Original report: Saudi Gazette