The Trump administration said it has approved the potential sale of nearly 50 F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, a move that would strengthen the kingdom’s military capabilities amid regional security threats.
“This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a major non-NATO ally that is a force for political stability and economic progress in the Gulf region,” the State Department said in a statement.
The announcement comes as the Houthis have ramped up attacks in the region, including against Saudi Arabia, while seeking to exert control over the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a strategically important oil chokepoint.
The Trump administration said the proposed deal would improve Riyadh’s ability to deter current and future threats but “would not alter the military balance in the region.” The language refers to a longstanding U.S. policy of ensuring Israel maintains a qualitative military edge over potential rivals in the Middle East.
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The sale still requires congressional approval. Some lawmakers have expressed concerns about deepening military ties with Saudi Arabia because of the kingdom’s relationship with China.
Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, D-Ill., opposed the sale Thursday, saying it “could put the crown jewels of American military technology within reach of the Chinese Communist Party.”
In a statement on social media, Krishnamoorthi added, “We must not sell our most advanced fighter jet anywhere the CCP may be able to get its hands on the technology inside it.”
The proposed sale involves the F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter and related equipment, with an estimated value of $24.3 billion, according to a State Department statement Thursday.
Saudi Arabia is a major buyer of U.S. weapons, including F-15 fighter jets, and has long sought to join the F-35 program. Even if the sale receives congressional approval, however, it could take years for the aircraft to be delivered.
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The proposed sale would make Saudi Arabia only the second country in the Middle East to operate the advanced stealth fighter alongside Israel.
In November 2025, when President Donald Trump said he would sell the jets to Saudi Arabia, an Israeli security source described the prospect of Riyadh acquiring the fifth-generation fighter as “very concerning” for Israel. Trump dismissed the concerns, saying, “The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the military balance in the region.”
In May 2025, Trump praised Saudi Arabia and its leaders after the White House announced a commitment by the kingdom to invest $600 billion in a series of deals with the U.S.
Trump has also maintained a close relationship with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who visited him in the White House in November 2025.