President Donald Trump confirmed on March 4, 2024, that the United States will sell advanced F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia. This announcement comes just before Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman‘s visit to Washington, where he is expected to discuss military and economic partnerships with U.S. officials.
During a press briefing, Trump stated, “We will be selling F-35s.” This decision highlights the enduring alliance between the United States and Saudi Arabia, which has persisted for decades. The crown prince is poised to arrive with a list of requests, including formal assurances regarding U.S. military support for the kingdom.
The F-35, known as one of the world’s most advanced military aircraft, has been a point of contention in U.S. foreign policy. While the Trump administration seeks to strengthen ties with Saudi Arabia, there are significant concerns about maintaining Israel‘s “qualitative military advantage” in the region. The administration’s focus on Israeli support, especially amid ongoing discussions about a peace plan for Gaza, complicates the sale.
Additionally, fears have been raised regarding the potential for sensitive F-35 technology to be transferred to China, a nation that maintains close relations with both Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. This issue previously derailed a similar sale to the UAE, and it continues to be a critical factor in the negotiations surrounding the F-35s.
As Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman prepares for his White House meeting, it remains to be seen how these discussions will unfold. The outcome of this visit is likely to have significant implications for U.S.-Saudi relations and the broader geopolitical landscape in the Middle East.
