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September 17, 2026
U.S. Approves $24.3 Billion F-35 Sale to Saudi Arabia Amid Security Concerns
- The State Department has officially approved the sale of 48 F-35 jets and related equipment to Saudi Arabia, emphasizing it will not alter the military balance in the region.
- Congress has been notified of the sale, with lawmakers expressing fears that the technology could be accessed by China due to its partnership with Saudi Arabia.
- The approval follows Saudi Arabia's ongoing conflict with Iranian-backed Houthi forces, which have been targeting the Kingdom.
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5 Sources
- US, in controversial deal, agrees to sell F-35s to Saudi ArabiaSep 17, 2026 at 8:01 PM · Politico
- State Department OKs potential $24B fighter jet sale to SaudisSep 18, 2026 at 12:05 AM · The Hill
- Trump Moves Ahead With F-35 Jet Sales to Saudi Arabia Despite Intelligence ConcernsSep 18, 2026 at 2:32 AM · NYT
- Trump administration advances $24.3 billion fighter jet deal to Saudi Arabia as Houthis escalate attacksSep 18, 2026 at 7:37 AM · CNBC
- U.S. clears potential $24.3B F-35 sale to Saudi Arabia despite security concernsSep 18, 2026 at 4:32 PM · NBC