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The United States approved a $5 billion military sale of bombs, guidance kits, and specialised equipment to Saudi Arabia on Friday to bolster the kingdom’s defences amidst ongoing regional conflict.
The State Department officially notified Congress of the proposed deal, which requires congressional approval before finalisation.
The agreement aims to protect Saudi Arabia, a key non-NATO ally, as regional tensions continue to escalate into direct military confrontations across the Middle East.
In a statement explaining the transaction, the State Department emphasised that the advanced weaponry will enhance Saudi Arabia’s airborne defence capabilities against immediate and future regional threats.
Officials noted that the sale aligns with U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives by securing a critical regional partner and improving operational compatibility between American forces and Gulf allies.
The defence package follows a wave of drone and missile strikes targeting Saudi territory launched by Iranian forces and Tehran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen.
Saudi officials plan to use the new guidance systems and munitions to fortify national airspace and protect vital infrastructure from cross-border attacks.
