US approves $1.4 billion arms sales to Saudi Arabia and Bahrain

(CLO) The US State Department has approved two military sales to Gulf allies Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, with a total estimated value exceeding 1.4 billion USD.

The assistance packages are aimed at strengthening the defense capabilities of two of Washington's key strategic partners in the Middle East, the Pentagon said Monday.

Of the two approved packages, the deal with Saudi Arabia is the larger in value, reflecting the long-standing and extensive defense relationship between the two countries. This support package focuses on enhancing the operational and maintenance capabilities of the Royal Saudi Army’s helicopter fleet, ensuring its performance and readiness.

A U.S. Central Command F-16C fighter jet on May 29, 2025. Photo: Senior Airman Kevin Dunkleberger

The estimated value of the deal is $1 billion, and is aimed at supporting, training and related equipment for military helicopters. The deal includes orders for spare parts, repair parts and aviation training services for the Royal Saudi Army Airborne Corps.

In parallel with the Saudi deal, the US State Department has also approved a potential defense contract for Bahrain, another key Gulf ally. The deal focuses on maintaining the operational performance and longevity of Bahrain’s existing fleet of F-16 fighter jets.

According to the Pentagon, the deal, worth an estimated $455 million, will provide maintenance services for F-16 jets and related equipment. The prime contractors designated to perform this contract are two leading US defense corporations, General Electric Aerospace and Lockheed Martin Aeronautics.

This contract ensures Bahrain's F-16 fleet remains combat-ready, contributing to maintaining stability in the region.

The Pentagon's simultaneous announcement of these two deals demonstrates the US's continued commitment to enhancing the military capabilities of strategic partners in the Middle East.

Source: https://congluan.vn/my-duyet-cac-goi-ban-vu-khi-1-4-ty-usd-cho-a-rap-xe-ut-va-bahrain-10320058.html