By Emem Nsini-Godwin
The United States has approved a proposed $1.96 billion arms sale to Saudi Arabia, aimed at strengthening the kingdom’s air defence capabilities as military tensions continue to escalate across the Middle East.
The U.S. State Department announced the approval on Wednesday, July 15, describing the deal as a key component of Washington’s regional security strategy.
In a statement, the department said the sale would advance U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives by reinforcing the defence capabilities of Saudi Arabia, a major non-NATO ally.
“This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a Major non-NATO Ally that is a force for political stability and economic progress in the Gulf Region,” the statement said.
The proposed package includes up to 20,000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon Systems (APKWS) and associated warheads. According to the U.S. Navy, the precision-guided weapons are designed to destroy targets accurately while minimizing collateral damage during combat operations.
Defence contractor BAE Systems, based in Nashua, New Jersey, will serve as the principal contractor for the sale.
The State Department said the weapons package would significantly improve Saudi Arabia’s ability to respond to evolving security threats while enhancing military cooperation with U.S. and allied forces.
“The proposed sale will improve Saudi Arabia’s capability to deter current and future threats by strengthening its homeland defense, and improving interoperability with U.S. forces, and other regional and NATO forces,” the department stated.
The approval comes amid renewed tensions between Saudi Arabia and Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels. The latest flare-up followed a Houthi missile strike on Abha International Airport in southern Saudi Arabia, days after a Yemeni government attack targeted Sanaa airport, where a Houthi delegation was expected to arrive from the funeral of Iran’s Supreme Leader. The Houthis have blamed Riyadh for the strike.
The arms deal also coincides with the United States’ intensified military campaign against Iran, including the reimposition of a naval blockade as hostilities between Washington and Tehran continue to escalate.
The State Department said the proposed sale would not affect U.S. military preparedness.
“There will be no adverse impact on U.S. Defense readiness as a result of this proposed sale,” it said.
