Washington has cleared a potential $3-billion foreign military sale to sustain Saudi Arabia’s F-15 fighter fleet, reinforcing the long-standing defense relationship between the two countries. The package covers a wide range of logistics and sustainment elements, including spares, repair services, software support, personnel equipment, and consumables designed to ensure the combat readiness of more than 200 F-15 aircraft operated by the Royal Saudi Air Force. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency noted that multiple US suppliers would support the effort, though no prime contractor has been identified. The approval follows Saudi Arabia’s designation as a major non-NATO ally, which enhances defense cooperation but stops short of NATO mutual defense commitments. The sustainment package comes alongside Riyadh’s broader procurement activity, including missile defense acquisitions, helicopter sustainment programs, and expressed interest in acquiring fifth-generation fighters as part of its long-term air power modernization strategy.
