US lawmakers have expressed significant concerns regarding the proposed sale of F-35 warplanes to Saudi Arabia, as reported by BBC News. Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi, a Democrat from Illinois, voiced his opposition, highlighting fears that the deal could allow sensitive American military technology to fall into the hands of the Chinese Communist Party. Other Democratic lawmakers and some defence officials have echoed these concerns, suggesting that Saudi Arabia might share this advanced technology with China due to their growing security partnership.
The US State Department announced the deal, asserting that it aligns with American foreign policy and national security objectives. Officials stated that the sale would enhance the security of a key non-NATO ally and contribute to political stability and economic progress in the Gulf region. They also claimed that the proposed sale would not disrupt the military balance in the area.
The proposed transaction includes 48 F-35s manufactured by Lockheed Martin, which would elevate Saudi Arabia’s military capabilities to a level comparable to Israel, which currently operates a fleet of 50 F-35 jets. However, Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs recently announced plans to expand its fleet to 100 jets, further complicating the regional military dynamics.
Each F-35A jet is priced at approximately $82.5 million. The proposed sale has drawn scrutiny from Congress, particularly in light of past controversies surrounding arms deals with Riyadh, notably following the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018. The Biden administration had previously considered supplying F-35s to Saudi Arabia contingent upon the kingdom normalising relations with Israel, but those diplomatic efforts have stalled.
The backdrop to this proposed sale includes ongoing conflicts in the region, particularly Saudi Arabia’s military engagement against the Iran-backed Houthi movement in Yemen. The Houthis have recently gained control of significant areas along Yemen’s Red Sea coast, prompting the Saudi crown prince to advocate for US military action against them. However, President Trump has so far refrained from direct military involvement.
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