United States approves $24.3 billion sale of 48 F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia

The United States has approved a $24.3 billion sale of 48 F-35 stealth fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, the State Department announced on Thursday. Saudi Arabia had long sought the advanced warplanes, but Washington had previously resisted to preserve Israel's military edge. The sale now places Saudi Arabia on par with Israel, which operates 50 F-35s. The State Department said the sale would enhance Saudi Arabia's defense and not alter the regional military balance. However, some US lawmakers and intelligence analysts fear the technology could reach China through Saudi Arabia's partnership with Beijing. Congress has 30 days to review the sale.