The United States is on the verge of approving Saudi Arabia’s blockbuster request for up to 48 cutting-edge F-35 Lightning II stealth fighters, multiple sources told Reuters—a game-changing move that could redefine Middle East air power and test decades of U.S. commitment to Israel’s qualitative military edge.
Two senior officials confirmed the Pentagon has elevated the proposed sale to secretary-level review after months of intense internal scrutiny. Saudi Arabia formally submitted the request directly to President Donald Trump earlier this year.
While no final decision has been reached, the package still requires Cabinet clearance, presidential sign-off, and mandatory Congressional notification. Sources stress the process is advancing rapidly under Trump’s directive to deepen defense ties with Riyadh.
Saudi Arabia’s bid to buy up to 48 F-35 jets clears a key Pentagon hurdle, moving closer to approval. Still awaits White House & Congress review. A potential game changer for Middle East defense ties. #SaudiArabia #F35 #USDefense #Pentagon #InsightPakistan pic.twitter.com/mzcR5BayS0
— Insight Pakistan (@insight_pak) November 5, 2025
The F-35, Lockheed Martin’s radar-evading fifth-generation marvel, has until now been exclusively operated by Israel in the region—giving the Jewish state unmatched aerial dominance. A Saudi deal would mark the first time another Middle Eastern power gains access to America’s most advanced warplane.
Riyadh, already the Pentagon’s top foreign buyer, views the jets as crown jewels in its fleet modernization and a critical shield against Iranian threats. The Kingdom’s current arsenal includes F-15s, Typhoons, and Tornados.
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This potential sale builds on the unprecedented $142 billion U.S.-Saudi arms mega-package sealed earlier in 2025—the largest defense accord in American history—and aligns perfectly with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030 ambition to forge an unbreakable long-term security partnership with Washington.
Congressional pushback remains possible over human rights concerns and the Khashoggi murder, but Trump’s team appears determined to push through.
The Pentagon, White House, State Department, and Lockheed Martin declined comment, citing government-to-government protocols.
If approved, the deal will send shockwaves across the region—and signal that under President Trump, Saudi Arabia is firmly back at the heart of America’s Middle East strategy.
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