The United States has approved a $3.5 billion arms sale of air-to-air missiles to Saudi Arabia, signaling a growing defense partnership between the two countries. This deal, part of a series of arms agreements expected to be announced during President Donald Trump’s upcoming visit to the region, highlights Saudi Arabia’s significant investment plans in the U.S. over the next four years. The sale includes 1,000 advanced medium-range air-to-air missiles to bolster the Royal Saudi Air Force, known for holding the world’s second-largest fleet of F-15 fighter jets.
The U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency emphasized that this proposed sale aligns with U.S. foreign policy goals and national security objectives by enhancing the security of a key partner in the Gulf Region. However, the deal must still receive approval from the U.S. Congress, which has the authority to review and potentially block such arms sales.
Saudi Arabia’s track record, including the controversial military intervention in Yemen and the assassination of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, has drawn significant Congressional scrutiny. The U.S. intelligence community implicated Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Khashoggi’s murder, a claim vehemently denied by the kingdom. Despite these challenges, Trump’s administration maintained strong ties with Gulf states post-presidency, exemplified by the recent approval for Qatar to purchase armed drones worth nearly $2 billion.
As Trump’s visit to the region approaches, the arms deal with Saudi Arabia underscores the intricate geopolitical dynamics and strategic alliances in the Middle East, raising important questions regarding U.S. arms sales policies and human rights considerations.
