US Confirms Sale of F-35 Fighter Jets to Saudi Arabia Amid Concerns

The United States government has announced a significant policy decision to sell advanced F-35 stealth fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, a move that has generated considerable concern among various nations regarding its implications for regional security. This announcement was made by President Donald Trump during a press briefing held on November 17, shortly before a scheduled meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the White House.

In his remarks, President Trump confirmed, "We will be doing that, we’ll be selling F-35s," highlighting the importance of Saudi Arabia as a strategic ally. The proposed sale involves Saudi Arabia requesting up to 48 F-35 fighter jets, which would mark the first time an Arab nation has acquired this fifth-generation military aircraft. Previously, Israel was the sole operator of F-35s in the Middle East.

Israeli officials have expressed their discontent with the impending sale, citing concerns that it could threaten Israel’s qualitative military advantage in the region. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) submitted a formal position paper to their political leadership, stating that Israel's air superiority relies on exclusive access to such advanced stealth technology. According to the IDF's assessment, maintaining this exclusivity is critical for conducting long-range covert operations. As reported by Ynet, the military document asserts, "Israel’s air superiority in the Middle East depends on maintaining exclusive access to fifth-generation stealth aircraft."

Furthermore, the IDF warned that the potential sale could disrupt current production lines, thereby delaying Israel’s own orders for additional F-35 squadrons. Under current US legislation, Israel is guaranteed access to military equipment necessary to preserve its qualitative edge over Arab nations; however, officials from the Trump administration have suggested that assurances could be provided without clarifying the specific additional capabilities that might be extended to Israel.

Concerns are not limited to Israel. A recent report from the US Defense Intelligence Agency has indicated that the transfer of F-35 technology to Saudi Arabia could potentially lead to China gaining access to these advanced capabilities, given the growing defence ties between Riyadh and Beijing. China has emerged as Saudi Arabia's largest trading partner, and the two nations have previously conducted joint military exercises.

India has also raised alarms regarding the sale, particularly in light of a recent defence agreement between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, which stipulates that an attack on either nation would be regarded as an attack on both. Analysts warn that the acquisition of F-35s by Saudi Arabia could enable Pakistan to obtain advanced US military technology indirectly through its relationship with Riyadh. An Indian defence analyst commented on the situation, stating, "A Saudi F-35 fleet would strengthen Saudi Arabia’s air dominance, compelling regional rivals and other near-neighbours, including India, to reassess air and missile defence postures."

The introduction of such advanced military technology into the region has the potential to initiate a new arms race, affecting not only the Middle East but also South Asia. The implications of this deal extend beyond immediate military considerations, as it could reshape alliances and power dynamics in both regions.

The sale of the F-35 jets represents a substantial shift in military support from the United States to Saudi Arabia, reflecting a broader strategy to bolster defence ties with key allies. As discussions continue between the US and Saudi leadership, the international community will be closely watching how this deal unfolds and its ramifications for regional stability.