US clears possible $24.3 billion F-35 fighter jet sale to Saudi Arabia

Washington: The US Department of State has approved a possible Foreign Military Sale of 48 F-35 Lightning II fighter aircraft and related equipment to Saudi Arabia at an estimated cost of $24.3 billion.

The proposed deal includes 48 F-35 aircraft with conventional take-off and landing capability, along with 49 Pratt & Whitney F135-PW-100 engines — 48 for installation and one spare engine, the State Department said in a statement on Thursday.

The package also includes secure communications, precision navigation and cryptographic equipment, electronic warfare database support, aircraft and munitions support equipment, spare parts, training equipment, simulators, software, technical documentation and logistics support.

According to the State Department, the proposed sale would support US foreign policy and national security objectives by strengthening the security of a major non-NATO ally and supporting stability and economic progress in the Gulf region.

The department said the deal would enhance Saudi Arabia's ability to deter current and future threats by strengthening its homeland defence and improving interoperability with US forces, as well as regional and NATO forces.

The proposed sale would also expand Saudi Arabia's operational aircraft fleet and enhance its air-to-air and air-to-ground self-defence capabilities, the statement said.

The State Department added that the proposed sale “will not alter the military balance in the region”.

Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company, based in Fort Worth, Texas, and Pratt & Whitney Military Engines, based in East Hartford, Connecticut, would be the principal contractors for the deal.

The department said it was not aware of any offset agreement proposed in connection with the potential sale. Any such agreement would be negotiated separately between Saudi Arabia and the contractors.

The implementation of the proposed sale would not require additional US government or contractor personnel to be assigned to Saudi Arabia, according to the State Department.