ISLAMABAD: In a major strategic development that reinforces the enduringUS-Saudi partnership, President Donald Trump is expected to reach anagreement allowing the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to acquire the advanced F-35stealth fighter jets, according to a Bloomberg report citing a USadministration official. The breakthrough comes ahead of Saudi Crown PrinceMohammed bin Salman’s scheduled visit to the White House next week, duringwhich economic and defence agreements are anticipated to be signed.
The reported deal marks a significant policy shift, reviving the closealignment between Washington and Riyadh that characterised Trump’s firstterm.
President Trump himself confirmed on Friday that he is actively consideringthe Saudi request, stating aboard Air Force One that the Kingdom wishes topurchase a large number of F-35 aircraft along with other fighter jets.This move signals a clear prioritisation of traditional Gulf allies and adeparture from the more restrained approach of the previous administration,which had withheld such advanced platforms over human rights concerns.
The agreement would also underscore the resilience of US-Saudi ties despiteoccasional strains, with President Trump’s personal rapport with CrownPrince Mohammed bin Salman playing a pivotal role. Sources indicate thatbroader economic pacts are also on the table, promising increasedinvestments and cooperation that would further solidify the strategicpartnership.
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https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-11-14/trump-likely-to-sell-f-35-fighters-to-saudis-us-official-says