The United States is preparing to offer Saudi Arabia an arms package exceeding $100 billion, potentially to be announced during President Donald Trump’s upcoming visit to the kingdom in May.
Key Highlights:
- Major Defense Contractors Involved: The deal is expected to involve leading U.S. defense companies, including Lockheed Martin, RTX Corp (formerly Raytheon Technologies), Boeing, Northrop Grumman, and General Atomics.
- Advanced Military Equipment: The proposed package may include C-130 transport aircraft, missiles, radars, and MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones.
- Congressional Review Required: Under U.S. law, major international weapons deals must be reviewed by Congress before finalization.
This initiative mirrors President Trump’s first-term approach, where he emphasized weapons deals as beneficial for American jobs. However, only a fraction of a proposed $110 billion deal in 2017 materialized.
The Biden administration had previously attempted to finalize a defense pact with Riyadh, which included conditions aimed at curtailing Chinese arms acquisitions and investments. It’s unclear if the current proposal includes similar requirements.
The proposed arms deal underscores the evolving defense relationship between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia under President Trump’s leadership. Further details are anticipated during the upcoming visit.
