Israeli Air Force Warns Against Sale of F-35 Fighters to Saudi Arabia

SadaNews - The Israeli army has warned about the implications of the United States selling F-35 fighters to Saudi Arabia, considering that the deal could undermine Israeli military superiority in the region.

A document issued by the Air Force and presented to political leadership indicated that Israel's aerial superiority in the Middle East primarily relies on its exclusive possession of fifth-generation stealth aircraft.

Air Force officials confirmed that the advanced capabilities of the F-35 fighters in areas such as detection, data processing, and networking systems provide Israel with an unprecedented advantage over any other regional country.

The document clarifies that the execution of long-range operations by the Israeli Adir aircraft fleet is based on this exclusivity, allowing for covert missions at long distances outside the borders. Assessments indicate that Saudi Arabia's possession of the same aircraft could limit this operational advantage.

The report also warned that Riyadh's purchase of fleets of these fighters from Lockheed Martin could occupy key production lines, potentially delaying Israeli orders and disrupting modernization plans within the Air Force.

Israel had previously agreed to "purchase the fourth squadron of F-35 aircraft, in addition to an F-15IA squadron from Boeing to replace older aircraft.

The Israeli army confirmed that it has presented its position regarding the deal to the political leadership.

In Washington, U.S. President Donald Trump announced that the country intends to move forward with the sale, ahead of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's visit to the White House.

Last week, Trump hinted that he is considering Saudi Arabia's request to purchase a significant number of advanced fighters, expressing support for regional normalization efforts between Saudi Arabia and Israel. Reports indicate that the kingdom requested to purchase 48 F-35s.

A senior White House official stated that Trump is inclined to support the deal, but will make the final decision after meeting with the Crown Prince.