The potential F-35 deal between the United States and Saudi Arabia gained momentum on Friday after President Donald Trump said he was considering the sale. He told reporters that Saudi Arabia wanted to buy a large number of F-35 stealth jets. He added that he was reviewing the request and expected more discussions soon.
The possible agreement comes ahead of next week’s White House meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Trump said the visit would include economic and defense deals. He also said the meeting would be more of an honor ceremony than a routine diplomatic discussion. The president repeated his hope that Saudi Arabia would eventually join the Abraham Accords.
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However, the F-35 deal has raised security concerns within the US defense community. A Pentagon intelligence assessment warned that China could gain access to sensitive jet technology if the sale moves forward. The New York Times reported that several officials were uneasy about this risk. Despite this, Trump signaled that talks would continue.
The two leaders may also discuss a broader US-Saudi defense agreement. Reports said both sides hoped to finalize it during the crown prince’s visit. Saudi Arabia has long sought stronger US security guarantees. It also wants access to advanced American weapons and deeper military cooperation.
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Saudi Arabia remains one of Washington’s biggest defense customers, and both countries rely on a long-standing security partnership. Trump said he would continue reviewing the F-35 deal as part of that relationship. He also noted that cooperation would expand as both sides negotiate new agreements.