WASHINGTON: The United States is reportedly preparing to offer Saudi Arabia an extensive arms package valued at over $100 billion, according to a report by Reuters.
This deal is being organized ahead of a planned visit by President Donald Trump to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates next month.
High-profile defense contractors such as Lockheed Martin, RTX Corp, Boeing, Northrop Grumman, and General Atomics are expected to be key players in supplying advanced military systems as part of this package. Several executives from these companies are likely to accompany Trump during his trip.
The proposed arms package could include a variety of military equipment, such as C-130 transport aircraft, missiles, and radar systems. However, sources have indicated that it is improbable for Saudi Arabia to obtain Lockheed Martin’s F-35 fighter jet, as these aircraft are only available to a select group of countries, including NATO allies, Japan, South Korea, and Australia.
Former President Biden’s prior administration attempted to negotiate a new defense agreement with Saudi Arabia aimed at normalizing relations with Israel, which also sought to limit Chinese investments and arms purchases. It remains unclear whether Trump’s upcoming arms deal will impose similar conditions on Riyadh.
