The Trump administration has moved forward with a proposed $24.3 billion sale of 48 F-35 Lightning II fighters to Saudi Arabia, formally notifying Congress and starting the review process. The package would make Saudi Arabia the first Gulf operator of the stealth jet if it clears lawmakers and remaining approvals.
The State Department’s notification comes amid internal U.S. intelligence concerns that China could gain access to sensitive F-35 technology through espionage or Saudi Arabia’s defence and technology ties with Beijing. Reported risks centre on the aircraft’s advanced radar and surveillance systems, the security of facilities that would handle the technology, Chinese access to Saudi bases and the kingdom’s use of Huawei and ZTE telecoms equipment.
The proposed sale includes 48 conventional take-off and landing F-35As and related support, training and equipment. The public notice did not spell out any specific safeguards or aircraft configuration intended to address the China-related concerns. Congress now has a formal review period during which it can seek to block the deal.