Trump’s planned F-35 approval to Saudi Arabia reshapes regional power and strategic alliances
The White House is preparing for a major geopolitical shift as President Donald Trump signals readiness to approve the sale of advanced F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia. The move marks a turning point in U.S. weapons policy and raises urgent questions about Israel’s long-protected military dominance.
Washington’s New Direction
President Donald Trump confirmed on Monday that he intends to allow Saudi Arabia to purchase F-35 stealth fighter jets, the most advanced aircraft in the U.S. arsenal. The announcement came a day before Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s visit to the White House, underscoring Washington’s intent to strengthen ties with Riyadh even as regional tensions remain high.
Balancing Saudi Ambitions and Israeli Concerns
The potential deal challenges the long-standing U.S. policy of safeguarding Israel’s Qualitative Military Edge (QME) — a commitment dating back to 1968 under President Lyndon Johnson and reinforced by Ronald Reagan. Several Israeli figures, including former deputy army chief Yair Golan, warned that selling F-35s to Riyadh could erode decades of military superiority and spark an arms race in the Middle East.
Strategic Motives Behind the Approval
Trump praised Saudi Arabia as a “great ally,” referencing the kingdom’s support for U.S. strikes that he claimed “obliterated” Iranian nuclear sites earlier this year. Analysts note that delivering F-35s would signal the deepest military partnership yet between Washington and Riyadh, even as the Abraham Accords stall amid ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Production, Politics, and Potential Roadblocks
Even if approved, the F-35 supply process is lengthy and politically sensitive. Production scaling, pilot training, and technology transfer could take years. U.S. lawmakers — or a future administration — may still block or delay the deal. Congress holds the right to disapprove major arms sales, adding a significant layer of uncertainty.
Growing US–Saudi Security Alignment
If completed, this sale would represent Trump’s third major arms package for Saudi Arabia across his two terms. It follows previously announced deals valued at USD 120 billion and USD 142 billion, covering missile defenses, maritime assets, and cooperative military systems. Experts believe the U.S. is prioritizing interoperability — ensuring Saudi forces can operate seamlessly alongside the Pentagon in future operations.
Regional Timing and Diplomatic Calculations
The announcement’s timing closely precedes a U.S.–Saudi investment conference in Washington and arrives as the Gaza ceasefire remains fragile. Meanwhile, Prince Mohammed reportedly received a handwritten letter from Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, adding another layer of diplomatic complexity to an already volatile region.
Trump’s intention to sell F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia signals a profound shift in regional power dynamics. For Indonesians and Singaporeans observing Middle Eastern developments that influence global oil stability, trade routes, and geopolitical alliances, the outcome of this arms deal could affect economic and diplomatic relations across Asia. As Washington deepens ties with Riyadh, the Asia-Pacific region must watch closely how this evolving security landscape reshapes global strategic balances.
Sources: Al Jazeera (2025) , Politico (2025)
Keywords: F-35 Fighter Jet, Saudi Arabia Arms Deal, Israel Military Edge, Trump Policy, US–Saudi Relations
