Washington approves a $24.3 billion deal including 48 stealth fighter jets and 49 engines

Riyadh | BETH

The U.S. State Department approved on Thursday a potential military deal for Saudi Arabia worth $24.3 billion, including the purchase of 48 F-35 Lightning II fighter jets manufactured by Lockheed Martin, in addition to 49 Pratt & Whitney engines, communications equipment, spare parts, and support services.

The approval moves the deal to an advanced formal stage within the U.S. military sales process, with the remaining implementation procedures to be completed later.

The F-35 is a fifth-generation fighter jet, featuring stealth capabilities, advanced sensor systems, information fusion, and the ability to operate within an integrated combat environment.

In addition to the aircraft and engines, the deal includes a package of technical and operational support, spare parts, and equipment related to operation and maintenance.

The announcement comes as the region faces military escalation, expanding missile and drone threats, and disruptions to navigation across several maritime corridors.

The decision comes about ten months after Washington announced that it was moving forward with the process of selling F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, bringing the deal to a more advanced formal stage.

The deal will represent a qualitative addition to the capabilities of the Royal Saudi Air Force, bringing it into operation of one of the most advanced U.S. air combat systems in terms of stealth, sensing, and battle management.