United States President Donald Trump has approved a proposed $1.9 billion arms sale to Saudi Arabia, authorising the transfer of precision-guided weapons to strengthen the kingdom’s air defence capabilities amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
The package includes up to 20,000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon Systems (APKWS) and related warheads. Washington said the sale is intended to help Saudi Arabia counter current and emerging threats while improving military coordination with US and allied forces.
In a statement issued yesterday, the US State Department said the proposed sale supports Washington’s foreign policy and national security objectives by reinforcing the security of Saudi Arabia, which it described as a Major Non-NATO Ally and a key contributor to stability and economic progress in the Gulf.
“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 department said.
The State Department said the APKWS is a laser-guided precision weapon designed to accurately engage targets while minimising collateral damage. According to the US Navy, the system provides a cost-effective means of neutralising a wide range of threats with greater accuracy than conventional unguided rockets.
It added that the sale would significantly enhance Saudi Arabia’s ability to defend against missile, drone and other aerial threats, while improving interoperability with the armed forces of the United States, NATO allies and regional partners.
BAE Systems, based in Nashua, New Jersey, has been named the principal contractor for the deal.
The approval comes amid renewed security concerns in the Gulf as Saudi Arabia faces increasing threats from Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels. Earlier this week, the Houthis launched missiles targeting Abha International Airport in southern Saudi Arabia, raising fears of a fresh escalation in the years-long conflict.
The attack followed an earlier strike on Sanaa International Airport by forces loyal to Yemen’s internationally recognised government.
The strike reportedly sought to divert a flight carrying a Houthi delegation returning from the funeral of Iran’s Supreme Leader. The Houthis later accused Riyadh of orchestrating the attack, further escalating tensions.
The proposed sale also comes as the United States increases military pressure on Iran, intensifying operations and maintaining a naval blockade amid renewed hostilities with Tehran.
The worsening regional security situation has reinforced Washington’s efforts to strengthen the defensive capabilities of its Gulf allies.
Despite the scale of the transaction, the State Department said the sale would not affect US military readiness.
“There will be no adverse impact on US Defence readiness as a result of this proposed sale,” it said