US to Sell F-35s to Saudi Arabia
Analysis based on 8 articles · First reported Nov 17, 2025 · Last updated Nov 18, 2025
The proposed sale of Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II jets to Saudi Arabia could significantly impact the defense industry, particularly Lockheed Martin, by opening up a new major market. It also introduces geopolitical shifts in the Middle East, potentially affecting regional stability and the 'qualitative military advantage' of Israel, which could influence defense spending and alliances.
President Donald Trump announced the United States will sell F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, ahead of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's visit to Washington. This move is part of a broader effort by Donald Trump to expand the Abraham Accords, aiming for Saudi Arabia to normalize relations with Israel. However, Saudi Arabia has conditioned this normalization on Israel agreeing to a pathway for a Palestinian state, a condition Israel vehemently opposes. Concerns also exist regarding the potential transfer of F-35 technology to China and maintaining Israel's military dominance in the Middle East. A similar F-35 sale to the United Arab Emirates was previously stalled by the Joe Biden administration.
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