The White House announced on Tuesday that the United States and Saudi Arabia have signed a military sales agreement worth nearly $142 billion. According to the agreement, over ten American defense companies will provide advanced weapons and services to Saudi Arabia, spanning five key areas.
Firstly, it includes upgrades for the air force and space capabilities, followed by air defense and missile defense systems, maritime and coastal security systems, border security and modernization of the army, and upgrades to information and communication systems.
Additionally, the US will provide training and support to the Saudi Armed Forces, including enhancing Saudi military academy education and military medical services.
Saudi Arabia is one of the largest buyers of US military equipment. Reports suggest that discussions have been held between the US and Saudi Arabia regarding the potential purchase of the fifth-generation F-35 fighter jets. However, this matter was not mentioned in the White House statement.
Currently, Israel is the only country in the Middle East with F-35 fighter jets and has established multiple squadrons. If Saudi Arabia successfully acquires F-35 jets, it would become the second Middle Eastern nation after Israel to possess this advanced aircraft.
American aviation giant Boeing is leveraging this opportunity to enhance its collaboration with Saudi Arabia. According to Bloomberg News, the Saudi sovereign wealth fund (PIF) plans to order 30 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft for its aviation leasing company, AviLease.
Boeing has also indicated its consideration of involving Saudi Arabia in the global production network for the F-15EX fighter jets, aiming to enhance Saudi Arabia’s industrial capabilities and deepen cooperation between the two countries in the defense industry sector.
This substantial arms sale is part of a $600 billion agreement signed between Trump and Saudi Arabia. The agreement was signed after Trump’s arrival in Riyadh to begin his Middle East tour.
The extensive collaboration showcases the growing ties between the US and Saudi Arabia in the defense and aviation sectors, setting the stage for enhanced military capabilities and industrial cooperation between the two countries.