WASHINGTON: The United States has approved a proposed $1.96 billion arms sale to Saudi Arabia, with the package designed to strengthen the Kingdom’s air defence capabilities amid escalating regional security challenges.
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 security of Saudi Arabia, which it described as a Major Non-NATO Ally.
The department added that the sale is intended to contribute to political stability and economic security across the Gulf region.
Advanced Precision Weapons Included
According to the State Department, Saudi Arabia has requested the purchase of up to 20,000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon Systems (APKWS) along with associated warheads.
The US Navy describes the APKWS as a cost-effective precision-guided weapon designed to engage targets while reducing the risk of unintended damage in surrounding areas during military operations.
The principal contractor for the proposed sale will be BAE Systems, based in Nashua, New Jersey.
Aim Is to Strengthen Saudi Air Defences
The State Department said the proposed package would improve Saudi Arabia’s ability to respond to current and future security threats.
According to the statement, the sale would strengthen the Kingdom’s homeland defence capabilities while enhancing operational coordination and interoperability with US forces, regional partners and NATO allies during joint operations.
US officials also said the transaction would not adversely affect America’s own defence readiness.
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Approval Comes Amid Rising Regional Tensions
The proposed arms sale comes at a time of heightened tensions across the Middle East.
Recent developments have increased concerns about regional stability, particularly following renewed hostilities involving Iran, the United States, and the Iran-backed Houthi movement in Yemen.
Earlier this week, the Houthis launched missiles towards Abha International Airport in southern Saudi Arabia.
The attack followed reports that Yemen’s internationally recognised government had targeted Sanaa International Airport in an effort to divert a flight carrying a Houthi delegation returning from the funeral of Iran’s Supreme Leader. The Houthis subsequently accused Saudi Arabia of responsibility for that operation.
Broader Security Environment
The approval also comes as the United States has intensified military pressure on Iran following renewed confrontation between the two countries.
Growing instability around key maritime routes, particularly in the Gulf region, has heightened international concerns over energy security, shipping and regional peace.
Against this backdrop, Washington says strengthening the defensive capabilities of regional partners remains an important component of its broader security strategy.
Congressional Review Still Required
Under US law, major foreign military sales approved by the State Department are formally notified to Congress, which has the authority to review or object to the proposed transaction before it is finalised.
If completed, the nearly $2 billion package would further reinforce long-standing defence cooperation between the United States and Saudi Arabia while supporting the Kingdom’s efforts to modernise its air defence systems in an increasingly volatile regional security environment.
