Trump signals approval for possible F-35 sale to Saudi Arabia

US President Donald Trump said on Monday that he is prepared to move forward with Saudi Arabia’s request to purchase American-made F-35 fighter jets, a development that could shift the military balance in the Middle East. His comments came a day before Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was scheduled to arrive in Washington for a full day of consultations.

Speaking to reporters at the Oval Office, Trump said the United States intended to proceed with the sale. The F-35 is widely regarded as one of the most advanced fighter jets in service, known for its ability to evade radar and operate with a high degree of stealth.

Saudi Arabia has been seeking access to the aircraft for years and has requested up to 48 jets. Reuters reported earlier this month that the potential deal had already cleared an important Pentagon review. A senior US official had also noted that Trump planned to raise the matter with the crown prince during their meeting.

Riyadh, which is the largest buyer of American arms, has been working to modernise its air force amid continued tensions with Iran. The kingdom currently operates a fleet that includes Boeing F-15s, as well as European Tornado and Typhoon fighters. The addition of F-35s would mark a major upgrade in its capabilities.

Any formal approval is expected to face careful review in Washington. US law requires that Israel maintain a qualitative military edge, which ensures that it has superior access to American weaponry compared to other countries in the region. Israel already flies several squadrons of F-35s and is currently the only Middle Eastern state operating the aircraft.

Earlier diplomatic attempts to link a potential F-35 sale to Saudi Arabia with broader regional agreements, including possible Saudi recognition of Israel, did not advance under the Biden administration.

Congress may still raise objections. Some lawmakers have previously criticised large arms sales to Riyadh, particularly after the 2018 killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, and remain cautious about deepening military cooperation with the kingdom.

With the crown prince’s visit set to open new talks between Washington and Riyadh, the proposed sale appears to be back in focus, though several political and legislative hurdles remain.