Saudi Arabia Could Become First Arab Country to Acquire F-35

Saudi Arabia could become the first Arab country to acquire the F-35 fighter jet, a move underscored by the display of a full-scale F-35 mock-up with Royal Saudi Air Force markings at the World Defense Show 2026 in Riyadh.

Demonstration flyovers of F-35 aircraft carrying Saudi insignia were also conducted at the event.

Saudi Arabia is reportedly seeking up to 48 F-35A aircraft. Back in November 2025, President Donald Trump said the United States “will be selling” F-35s to Saudi Arabia under a new Strategic Defense Agreement. The move cleared long-standing restrictions and marked the first U.S. authorization to transfer the F-35 to a Middle Eastern country other than Israel. Any sale to Riyadh would likely be structured to preserve Israel’s Qualitative Military Edge. This could involve Saudi aircraft receiving a modified software configuration that differs from systems used by Israel.

Separately, Saudi Arabia is also reported to be in talks with Pakistan over a possible purchase of JF-17 Thunder fighter jets. Unconfirmed recent reports suggest the kingdom may consider settling around $2 billion in Pakistani loans in exchange for an unspecified number of aircraft, with a further $2 billion potentially allocated for equipment. Neither government has confirmed the discussions.