US Approves Sale of 48 F-35 Jets to Saudi Arabia

US Approves Sale of 48 F-35 Jets

The US has approved the sale of 48 F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia. The deal is valued at approximately $24.3 billion and includes 49 Pratt & Whitney engines.

• Deal valued at approximately $24.3 billion
• Includes 49 Pratt & Whitney engines

Saudi's Request and Middle East Tensions

Saudi Arabia has long requested F-35 jets to bolster its defense amid tensions with Iran. The US approved the request while emphasizing Israel's qualitative military edge.

• Saudi seeks to strengthen defense amid Iran tensions
• US emphasizes Israel's qualitative military edge

Congress Approval and Arms Race

The US Congress will now decide on the approval of this deal. If Saudi Arabia acquires the F-35 jets, it could trigger an arms race in the Middle East.

• Congress to decide on deal approval
• Saudi acquisition may trigger arms race in the Middle East