Trump approves F-35 sale to Saudi Arabia. Here’s why it’s controversial

The United States State Department has recently approved a potential sale of up to 48 F-35A Joint Strike Fighters to Saudi Arabia, a deal valued at an estimated $24.3 billion. This decision fulfills a commitment made by former President Donald Trump and marks a significant shift in U.S. policy, as Washington previously refrained from exporting these advanced stealth fighters to Arab nations. The proposed sale, which includes F135 engines, support equipment, and training, now enters a 30-day congressional review period.

The move has generated considerable controversy due to several key concerns. Critics point to Saudi Arabia's human rights record and its ongoing conflict in Yemen, questioning the appropriateness of such a major arms transfer. Furthermore, Israel, which is currently the only Middle Eastern nation operating F-35s, has historically opposed such sales to maintain its "qualitative military edge" (QME) in the region, a commitment enshrined in U.S. law. However, the State Department asserts that the sale "will not alter the military balance in the region" and would support U.S. foreign policy by strengthening a major non-NATO ally.

Additionally, U.S. intelligence agencies and some lawmakers have expressed worries that Riyadh's security partnerships with China could potentially lead to Beijing gaining access to sensitive F-35 technology, compromising its advanced stealth capabilities. Despite these controversies, Saudi Arabia has actively pursued the F-35s to modernize its air force and enhance its defense capabilities against regional threats, particularly in light of recent vulnerabilities highlighted by the conflict with Houthi rebels in Yemen.