U.S. Approves $3.5 Billion Missile Deal with Saudi Arabia

In a significant development for U.S.-Saudi defense relations, the U.S. State Department has approved a potential $3.5 billion arms sale to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The deal includes a large supply of AIM-120C-8 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM), according to a statement released by the Pentagon on Friday.

The proposed arms package is part of a broader initiative, with expectations that the U.S. may offer Saudi Arabia military sales totaling over $100 billion during President Donald Trump’s upcoming visit to the Gulf nation.

As part of the approved sale, Saudi Arabia has requested: 1,000 AIM-120C-8 AMRAAM missiles, 50 AMRAAM guidance sections, Missile containers, spare parts, and related equipment and Comprehensive logistics and support services.

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The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), which oversees U.S. foreign arms sales, formally notified Congress of the proposed transaction on Friday. While this approval marks a critical step in the process, it does not yet indicate that a final agreement has been signed or that contract negotiations have been concluded.

RTX Corporation (formerly known as Raytheon Technologies) is listed as the principal contractor for the missile systems and will be responsible for fulfilling the potential order.

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This possible arms deal comes at a time when Washington is reinforcing its defense partnerships in the Middle East. The sale is seen as a way to boost Saudi Arabia’s air defense capabilities amid growing regional tensions, especially as threats from neighboring conflicts and drone warfare continue to evolve.

The AIM-120C-8 is one of the most advanced air-to-air missile systems in the U.S. arsenal, designed to intercept and destroy enemy aircraft beyond visual range. By equipping Saudi forces with this technology, the U.S. is helping to strengthen Riyadh’s ability to defend its airspace against modern aerial threats.

Although the State Department has approved the potential sale, the U.S. Congress will still have the opportunity to review and possibly block the deal. However, with the longstanding security relationship between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia, the transaction is expected to move forward unless met with significant opposition.

This arms package reflects the broader strategic goals of the U.S. to counterbalance rival powers in the region and support allies like Saudi Arabia with advanced defense technology.