F-35 Jets Deal Confirmed: Trump Hosts Saudi Crown Prince MBS in DC
The U.S. plans F-35 fighter jet sale to Saudi Arabia. Visit includes defense, technology, and economic collaborations with billion-dollar deals.
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The United States is selling F-35 stealth fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, President Donald Trump confirms Tuesday, marking a significant step in U.S.-Saudi defense cooperation. The announcement was made during the first White House visit of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman after seven years. The raising of Saudi flags outside the White House before the Crown Prince's arrival indicated the significance of the visit.
When Talked about the fighter jets sale, Trump expressed in a few words, “We will be doing that.” The F-35 deal is to be one of the main contracts through which cooperation in various fields such as economy, technology, and defense will be declared. As per the AP, the officials in the U.S. hinted that the Crown Prince might announce investments worth billions in U.S. AI infrastructure during his stay.
The Tuesday visit comprises ceremonial activities such as military bands, cannon salutes, and horseback escorts. Apart from the Oval Office meeting and black-tie dinner, other activities are planned during the visit. The trip is not termed by the U.S. as a formal state visit, but it involves an investment forum with the participation of the Crown Prince, which is to be focused on the areas of green energy, digital infrastructure, and biotechnology alongside defense sector cooperation.
The possible F-35 sale has caught the attention of several parties. Israel has been cautious about the matter, as it fears that the military power in the region might change if Saudi Arabia gets the same advanced fighter jets. Even among the Trump administration officials, there were those who expressed concerns that the transfer might lead to the Chinese getting access to sensitive technology, thus compromising U.S. strategic advantage.
Apart from discussing defense issues, Trump proposed that talks could include the scenario of Saudi Arabia becoming part of the Abraham Accords, which are U.S.-mediated treaties that establish diplomatic relations between Israel and several Arab states. “The Abraham Accords are going to be one discussion topic,” Trump remarked, and he continued with, “I wish Saudi Arabia to be a part of the Abraham Accords very soon.”
The sale of the F-35 and possible trade agreements highlight a larger U.S.-Saudi agenda that revolves around technology, defense, and investment partnerships, which is an indication of the two nations' cooperation being taken to a higher level.
