The US and Saudi Arabia Finalize Major Defense Agreement Centered on Advanced Aircraft and Armor

A new defense agreement between the United States and Saudi Arabia includes approval for the sale of F-35 fighters and nearly three hundred Abrams tanks. The arrangement aims to strengthen cooperation, expand shared security projects, and support a larger role for American defense companies inside the Kingdom. 

A statement described the agreement as a significant step that brings new funding, deeper partnership, and clearer alignment on regional security.

The plan includes a long-awaited commitment from Riyadh to purchase a fleet of F-35 aircraft. The purchase of nearly three hundred tanks adds another layer to the modernization effort and represents a major increase in the Kingdom’s armored capabilities.

Officials also signaled that further defense sales may follow. One senior industry figure mentioned ongoing conversations related to unmanned systems and additional platforms.

Observers expect the terms of the F-35 sale to draw attention because Washington has pledged to protect Israel’s advantage in the region. When asked about the matter, leaders commented that both nations should receive equipment of the highest quality. One official remarked, “I think it’s going to be pretty similar, yeah.”

Meetings between senior leaders continued throughout the visit. Saudi officials also announced an expansion of planned investments in American industries, raising an earlier pledge toward a larger target. They explained that the new agreement creates opportunities in fields related to technology, materials, and artificial intelligence.