The United States has approved a proposed $1.96 billion weapons sale to Saudi Arabia, aimed at strengthening the kingdom’s air defense capabilities as security tensions continue to escalate across the Middle East.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the US State Department said the proposed sale supports Washington’s foreign policy and national security objectives by enhancing the defense capabilities of Saudi Arabia, a designated Major Non-NATO Ally.
The package includes up to 20,000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon Systems (APKWS) and related warheads. According to the US Navy, the precision-guided weapon system is designed to destroy targets accurately while reducing collateral damage during military operations.
The State Department said the deal would improve Saudi Arabia’s ability to counter current and future security threats while enhancing interoperability with US forces and allied regional and NATO partners.
Defense contractor BAE Systems, based in Nashua, New Jersey, has been identified as the principal contractor for the proposed sale.
The announcement comes amid rising regional instability, with Saudi Arabia facing renewed security concerns following missile attacks launched by Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi movement.
Earlier this week, the Houthis fired missiles toward Abha International Airport in southern Saudi Arabia after accusing Riyadh of supporting an attack on Sanaa International Airport, where a flight carrying a Houthi delegation returning from Iran was reportedly targeted.
The proposed arms sale also coincides with heightened tensions between the United States and Iran, as Washington has intensified military operations and reimposed a naval blockade targeting Iranian shipping, further increasing uncertainty across the Gulf region.
The proposed deal will now move through the required congressional notification process before it can be finalized.
