The United States is considering a request from Saudi Arabia to purchase up to 48 advanced fighter jets, according to sources familiar with the matter. This potential multi-billion-dollar deal has cleared an important hurdle within the Pentagon, ahead of a visit by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The sale, if approved, would represent a major shift in policy and could impact the military balance in the Middle East, as Washington traditionally ensures that Israel maintains a qualitative military advantage in the region.

Saudi Arabia has long been interested in acquiring these advanced aircraft to modernize its air force and counter regional threats. The request has moved forward within the Defense Department, but several approvals are still required, including cabinet-level sign-off, presidential approval, and congressional notification. No final decision has been made, and officials note that the process is ongoing. The deal comes as the Trump administration signals a willingness to deepen defense ties with Riyadh.