US President Donald Trump has confirmed that the United States will sell F-35 stealth fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, marking a significant policy shift. The announcement came as Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman arrived in Washington for his first White House visit since the 2018 killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.
The F-35 jets, manufactured by Lockheed Martin, cost between $80m and $110m each. The sale would be the first delivery of the advanced fighter jets to a Middle Eastern state apart from Israel, which has historically received exclusive access to such technology to maintain its military edge.
A senior White House official said the Saudis would be spending a substantial amount on the US during the visit. In addition to the jet sales, reports indicate Saudi Arabia may announce a multibillion-dollar investment in US artificial intelligence infrastructure as part of efforts to diversify its economy.
The visit has drawn criticism from human rights advocates, including Khashoggi's widow, Hanan Elatr Khashoggi, who described it as 'very painful'. She urged Trump to prioritise American values of human rights and democracy over economic ties. The CIA has concluded that Prince Mohammed approved Khashoggi's murder, though Saudi authorities deny high-level involvement.
Trump defended the relationship, calling Saudi Arabia a 'great ally'. The visit includes discussions and a White House dinner hosted by First Lady Melania Trump. The policy shift reflects changing Middle East dynamics, with Gulf states focusing on countering Iran, which Riyadh views as its primary regional threat.
