Why US plan to sell F-35 warplanes to Saudi Arabia is controversial

September 18, 2026

The Trump administration has approved a controversial $24 billion sale of approximately 50 F-35 stealth fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, marking a significant shift in US policy. Washington previously refused such sales partly to maintain Israel's military superiority in the region, which is guaranteed by US law, though Israel is separately expanding its own F-35 fleet to 100 aircraft. Democratic lawmakers and defense officials oppose the deal, warning that Saudi Arabia's security partnership with China could result in sensitive American military technology being shared with Beijing.

Who is affected

Saudi Arabia (recipient of the proposed weapons sale)
Israel (regional military balance concerns)
The United States (seller and security policy implications)
Congress members, particularly Democrats like Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi
China (potential recipient of sensitive technology through Saudi partnership)
Lockheed Martin (manufacturer of the F-35 jets)
Houthi forces in Yemen (potential targets of the weapons)
Saudi-backed pro-government forces in Yemen

What action is being taken

Congress is scrutinizing the proposed sale during a 30-day review period
Saudi Arabia is engaged in fighting with the Houthis in Yemen
The Houthis are seizing control of areas along Yemen's Red Sea coast from Saudi-backed forces
Israel is procuring another F-35 squadron to expand its fleet

Why it matters

This sale represents a major shift in US Middle East policy that could alter regional military dynamics and potentially compromise American technological superiority. The deal raises significant national security concerns because Saudi Arabia's security partnership with China could enable Beijing to access America's most advanced stealth fighter technology. The sale also affects the US commitment to maintaining Israel's qualitative military edge in the region, a principle enshrined in US law. Additionally, the timing is significant as Saudi Arabia actively fights Iranian-backed Houthis, potentially escalating regional tensions.

What's next

Congress has 30 days to scrutinize or attempt to block the $24 billion sale
Israel will procure another F-35 squadron to double its fleet to 100 aircraft

Read full article from source: BBC