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By Amir Daftari
News Reporter
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President Donald Trump has announced he will greenlight the sale of advanced F‑35 stealth fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, signaling a major expansion of the U.S.’s global fighter export program.
“We’ll be selling them F‑35s,” Trump told reporters at the White House ahead of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s visit.
If approved, Saudi Arabia would become one of the few Middle Eastern countries to operate the F‑35, joining Israel as the only regional operator. The deal also highlights how the United States has steadily expanded its global footprint of F‑35 operators, with jets now serving in Europe, Asia, and other allied nations, illustrating the aircraft’s growing role as a cornerstone of U.S. military diplomacy.
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Why It Matters
The F‑35 remains one of the world’s most coveted fighter jets, prized for its stealth, advanced sensors, and networked combat systems. These capabilities allow pilots to penetrate defended airspace, coordinate in real time with other assets, and strike targets with unprecedented precision. Its combination of situational awareness, survivability, and strike power makes it a decisive tool in modern air warfare.
At the same time, the proposed Saudi sale carries geopolitical and security concerns. Israel’s long-held advantage in the region could be challenged, and sensitive technology could potentially be exposed, especially amid Riyadh’s expanding ties with other powers.
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What To Know
The F‑35 has evolved into more than just a U.S. weapon—it’s now a diplomatic tool. Around 20 nations operate or have ordered the jet, making the program one of America’s most significant military exports.
In East Asia, Japan is emerging as a major F‑35 power. The country has ordered 147 jets, including 42 F‑35Bs that will operate from its converted Izumo-class helicopter destroyers—effectively turning them into light carriers. This aligns with Tokyo’s broader strategy to counter regional threats, especially from China.
South Korea, meanwhile, is working to increase its F‑35 fleet to 60 A‑variants, bolstering its deterrence posture.
Australia has already taken delivery of all 72 of its ordered F‑35As, positioning itself as a key regional air-power hub.
Meanwhile in Europe, NATO members are steadily expanding their fleets: the United Kingdom and Italy operate both A and B variants, while Denmark has built a force of 43 jets. Norway and the Netherlands continue to grow their fleets, and Germany currently fields 35 aircraft. Finland has taken delivery of 64 jets, while Belgium and the Czech Republic have placed orders or await their first aircraft.
In the Middle East, Israel remains the sole F‑35 operator, maintaining a fleet of 75 modified “F‑35I Adir” jets tailored to its unique defense needs. The Saudi deal, if approved, would be historic.
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Challenges, Costs & Alternatives
Despite its popularity, the F‑35 program carries steep costs and technical challenges. The program’s lifetime cost is projected to top $2 trillion, largely driven by long-term sustainment through the 2080s. On the procurement side, U.S. plans are being trimmed. The 2025 defense budget includes a portion for F‑35 purchases, but overall acquisition numbers are lower than originally planned.
These costs and risks have pushed some countries to explore other options. The upgraded F‑16, while less advanced in stealth, remains a competitive alternative for nations focusing on affordability over cutting-edge technology. Yet despite these challenges, the F‑35 continues to attract global buyers eager to modernize their air forces and gain access to its advanced capabilities.
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What Happens Next
The F‑35 continues to drive global interest as countries seek to modernize their air forces with advanced stealth, sensors, and networked capabilities. Beyond the Middle East, nations in Europe and Asia are expanding or accelerating their acquisitions to maintain technological parity with potential adversaries. Even countries weighing alternatives are closely monitoring the F‑35’s operational performance and strategic value. As new sales are proposed or finalized, the aircraft is likely to remain a key tool of U.S. military diplomacy, with demand continuing to shape global air-power balances and foster closer defense partnerships.
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