Trump Confirms Plan to Sell F-35 Jets to Saudi Arabia Ahead of Crown Prince’s US Visit

On the eve of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s visit to the United States, President Donald Trump on Monday confirmed that his administration will proceed with the sale of advanced F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia — a deal that could run into billions of dollars and reshape regional power dynamics.

Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump stated, “We’ll be selling F-35s,” confirming Riyadh’s request to purchase up to 48 of the US-made stealth aircraft. The proposed sale comes amid Saudi Arabia’s efforts to bolster its defence capabilities against threats from Iran and armed groups across the Middle East.

A senior administration official, who requested anonymity, disclosed that several additional agreements are expected during the Crown Prince’s visit. These include a multibillion-dollar Saudi investment in US artificial intelligence infrastructure and potential cooperation in the civil nuclear energy sector.

However, the decision to approve the jet sale has stirred concerns within the administration. Some Republicans fear the move could disrupt Israel’s qualitative military edge, particularly as Washington seeks Israeli backing for Trump’s peace plan for Gaza.

The development also coincides with renewed US efforts to convince Saudi Arabia and Israel to normalise diplomatic relations under the Abraham Accords. While Trump has expressed optimism, Riyadh maintains that recognition of a Palestinian state remains a non-negotiable condition — a stance Israel continues to reject.

Another key concern for US officials is the possibility that advanced American technology could be exposed to China, given Beijing’s growing ties with both Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

The Crown Prince’s visit is expected to feature announcements of major economic and defence agreements, signalling a deepening strategic partnership between Washington and Riyadh.