WASHINGTON (UNITED STATES) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – The United States Department of State has approved and notified Congress of a possible $24.3 billion military sale to Saudi Arabia. The maximum package includes 48 conventional takeoff and landing F-35 Lightning II aircraft, 49 Pratt & Whitney F135-PW-100 engines, including one spare, as well as simulators, training, and technical and logistical support.
The first political hurdle in Washington has therefore been cleared, but this does not yet amount to a contract. According to Washington, the deal would strengthen the defense of Saudi territory, enhance the country’s ability to respond to current and future threats, and improve interoperability with US, regional, and NATO forces.
The notification states that the supply “will not alter the military balance in the region,” a sensitive point because Israel remains the only Middle Eastern operator of the F-35, and US legislation protects its qualitative military edge. If finalized, the purchase would give Riyadh two stealth squadrons and advanced air-to-air and air-to-ground capabilities, as part of the modernization of the Royal Saudi Air Force, which currently relies primarily on F-15s, Eurofighter Typhoons, and Tornados. The main contractors would be Lockheed Martin Aeronautics and Pratt & Whitney Military Engines; no additional US personnel are expected to be deployed to the Kingdom.
The process, however, remains open: Congress can review and block the sale, while the quantity, value, configuration, and delivery schedule will depend on negotiations and the agreements ultimately signed.
– Photo: Ipa Agency –
(ITALPRESS).
