Arms Package Details
The US is set to offer Saudi Arabia an arms package exceeding $100 billion, with major defense contractors like Lockheed Martin, RTX Corp, Boeing, Northrop Grumman, and General Atomics involved.
The package includes advanced weapons systems such as C-130 transport aircraft, missiles, and radar systems, but it's unlikely to include Lockheed Martin's F-35 fighter jets for Saudi Arabia.
Political and Historical Context
This proposal comes after the Biden administration's attempt to finalize a defense pact with Saudi Arabia, which included conditions like halting Chinese arms purchases. It's unclear if similar conditions apply to Trump's proposal.
The Biden administration lifted a ban on offensive weapons sales to Saudi Arabia in 2024, aiming to strengthen cooperation in the aftermath of Hamas' attack and for post-war Gaza reconstruction.