US approves potential $24.3 billion F-35 sale to Saudi Arabia

The US State Department has approved a possible sale of 48 F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia in a deal valued at up to $24.3 billion.

• The State Department approved the possible sale of 48 F-35 Lightning II jets, with related equipment, to Saudi Arabia.
• The package includes 49 F135 engines, communications and armament systems, spare parts, and logistics and training support from Lockheed Martin.
• Saudi Arabia would become the second Middle Eastern country to acquire the fifth-generation fighter jets.
• The State Department said the sale would enhance the security of a major non-NATO ally and would not change the military balance in the region.
• Congress has 30 days to scrutinize the proposed sale, as Democratic lawmakers oppose it over concerns F-35 technology could reach China through Saudi partnerships.