# U.S. Approves Potential $24.3B Saudi F-35 Sale

The United States reported approval on September 18, 2026, of a potential foreign military sale of Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, valued at **$24.3 billion**. The reports describe an approval of a potential sale—not a finalized contract award—and provide no solicitation, contract number, or procurement contact. They also note increased operational demand on U.S. naval and air assets, but do not identify related procurements.

- **Why this matters:** The approval is a significant FMS market signal for Lockheed Martin and suppliers of aircraft components, sustainment, and associated support, but it does not establish a current bidding opportunity.
- Companies should distinguish the reported approval from a final sale or contract award; the signals provide no acquisition schedule or solicitation details to support bid planning.
- The reports also reference higher operational demand on U.S. naval and air assets, but identify no specific repair, interceptor replenishment, or other contract action.

**Jurisdictions:** international
**Industries:** Defense & Military
**Published:** October 24, 2026

### Government Entities
- U.S. Department of State (State Department)
- U.S. Department of Defense (DoD)

### Vendors
- Lockheed Martin (F-35 aircraft manufacturer)

### Sources
- [Air Warfare - Page 2 of 480 - Defense News](https://www.defensenews.com/air/page/2) - Defense News
- [Mideast Africa - Page 2 of 185 - Defense News](https://www.defensenews.com/global/mideast-africa/page/2) - Defense News