The Trump administration is reviewing a request from Saudi Arabia to purchase up to 48 F-35 fighter jets.
According to sources cited by Reuters, Saudi Arabia has formally approached the United States with interest in acquiring as many as 48 advanced F-35 fighter aircraft. The proposal is now under consideration by the Trump administration as officials evaluate strategic, security, and political implications of such a sale.
If approved, the deal would significantly expand military ties between Washington and Riyadh, providing the kingdom access to one of the world’s most sophisticated stealth fighters. However, the potential sale is expected to face scrutiny from lawmakers concerned about regional stability and the use of American-made weapons in ongoing conflicts.
The F-35, manufactured by Lockheed Martin, has been at the center of U.S. defense partnerships with close allies, though sales of the jet to Middle Eastern nations have been limited due to security and technology-sharing sensitivities. The administration has not yet disclosed a timeline for a decision on the Saudi request.
