# State Department Approves F-35 Sale to Saudi Arabia

The U.S. Department of State has approved a potential **$24.3 billion** foreign military sale of 48 Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II fighter jets, 49 Pratt & Whitney F135 engines, and associated support and training to Saudi Arabia as of September 2026. This significant defense export aims to enhance Saudi Arabia's air capabilities and interoperability with U.S. and allied forces, reinforcing regional security and deterrence, particularly against Iran-backed threats. The sale is subject to a 30-day congressional review period during which Congress may raise concerns about technology transfer risks, especially regarding China, and regional military balance.

- **Why this matters:** This deal represents a major procurement opportunity for defense contractors, notably Lockheed Martin and Pratt & Whitney, and signals continued U.S. strategic support for Middle East defense modernization.
- Procurement professionals should note the congressional review window as a critical period for potential legislative action or delays impacting contract finalization.
- Companies involved in advanced fighter aircraft production, maintenance, and training services may find expanded business prospects tied to this sale.
- Organizations should evaluate implications for supply chain security and compliance given concerns about advanced technology exposure to foreign adversaries.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Defense & Military
**Topics:** Contracting Vehicles
**Published:** September 18, 2026

### Government Entities
- U.S. Department of State (State Department)
- U.S. Congress (Congress)
- F-35 Joint Program Office

### Vendors
- Lockheed Martin (prime contractor)
- Pratt & Whitney (engine manufacturer)

### Key Quotes
> Beijing has spent decades stealing American intellectual property and technology to close the gap with the United States, and we must not help them do it. We must not sell our most advanced fighter jet anywhere the CCP may be able to get its hands on the technology inside it.
> — Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, D-Ill.

### Sources
- [U.S. clears potential $24.3B F-35 sale to Saudi Arabia despite security concerns](https://www.yahoo.com/news/politics/articles/u-clears-potential-24-3b-163229618.html) - Yahoo
- [State Department OKs potential $24B fighter jet sale to Saudis](https://thehill.com/newsletters/defense-national-security/6097079-state-department-oks-potential-24b-fighter-jet-sale-to-saudis) - The Hill
- [US clears $24B F-35 sale for Saudi Arabia - Breaking Defense](https://breakingdefense.com/2026/09/us-clears-24b-f-35-sale-for-saudi-arabia) - Breaking Defense