The Trump administration has moved forward with a potential $24.3 billion arms sale to Saudi Arabia, approving the transfer of 48 Lockheed Martin F-35 fighter jets along with 49 Pratt & Whitney engines and various parts. This deal, announced on September 18, 2026, is intended to enhance the military capabilities of Saudi Arabia amid escalating attacks by Iran-backed Houthi forces in Yemen. The Houthis recently intensified their assaults on Saudi targets and launched a ground offensive to control the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a critical oil transit point.

U.S. officials emphasize that the sale supports America's foreign policy and national security goals by strengthening the defense posture of a major non-NATO ally in the Gulf. State Department representatives noted that this transaction aims to bolster Saudi Arabia’s ability to counter ongoing and future threats while maintaining the region’s military balance, specifically ensuring Israel’s qualitative edge remains intact. The deployment of these advanced F-35 jets signifies a significant upgrade in Riyadh’s defensive and offensive military options.

Despite the administration's position, the deal faces scrutiny in Congress, where lawmakers have 30 days to review or oppose the sale. Concerns center on the risk that sensitive U.S. military technologies embedded in the F-35 could become accessible to China, given Saudi Arabia’s increasing ties to Beijing. Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi has vocalized opposition, warning that transferring cutting-edge fighter jet technology to Saudi Arabia could jeopardize America’s military advantages if it falls into the hands of the Chinese Communist Party.

This announcement follows a history of complex U.S.-Saudi relations, marked by the large defense agreement signed in May 2025, worth nearly $142 billion, and ongoing political tensions following the 2018 killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. President Trump, known for a close alliance with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, hosted the prince in Washington in November 2025 to deepen economic and defense cooperation, including this latest push to supply advanced U.S. military hardware.