U.S. approval for more than 10,000 long-range precision air munitions and Abrams tank engines in two potential deals worth a combined $5.75 billion

Washington | BETH

The U.S. State Department has approved two potential military sales to Saudi Arabia with a combined value of up to $5.75 billion, including more than ten thousand long-range precision air munitions, in addition to engines for Abrams tanks.

The larger deal, worth about $5 billion, includes JDAM-ER munitions, a system that converts conventional bombs into precision-guided weapons while adding wings that extend their range and allow aircraft to launch them from farther away from the target.

Details of the package indicate that the Royal Saudi Air Force could receive around 10,004 munitions of this type, with Boeing serving as the principal contractor.

In a separate deal worth up to $750 million, the State Department approved the sale of 60 AGT-1500 engines to Saudi Arabia. These engines are used in M1 Abrams tanks, and Honeywell would serve as the principal contractor if the sale is completed.

Greater Range

The military significance of the first deal lies not only in the number of munitions, but also in increasing the Saudi Air Force’s ability to conduct precision strikes from greater distances, reducing the need to approach hostile air-defense zones.

The two deals also reflect two parallel tracks in the development of Saudi forces: strengthening the air arm with extended-range precision munitions, while maintaining the readiness of the heavy ground force through the Abrams tank fleet.

The announcement comes at a time when the region is witnessing a U.S.-Iran war and rising missile and maritime threats in the Gulf, giving the timing of the sale added strategic significance.

Not a Final Deal

The U.S. approval does not mean the contracts have been finalized. At this stage, it represents State Department approval and Congressional notification of a potential foreign military sale, and the final value and quantities could still change during negotiations.

But the military message appears clear:

Saudi Arabia is not only reinforcing its defenses; it is also materially expanding its ability to reach more distant targets with precision, both in the air and on the ground.