The United States has approved two potential foreign military sales to Saudi Arabia totaling $1 billion, greenlighting major helicopter sustainment and aviation training initiatives as Riyadh continues its long-standing pursuit of F-35 fighter jets.
According to the Defense Security Cooperation Agency, the State Department has formally notified Congress of the two proposals, each priced at $500 million. Lawmakers now have 30 days to review the requests.
The first package is a Cooperative Logistics Supply Support Arrangement, granting Saudi Arabia access to the U.S. supply system for ordering spare parts and repairs across its helicopter fleet. This includes UH-60 Black Hawks, AH-64 Apaches, CH-47F Chinooks, Schweizer 333s, and Aerial Scout aircraft, along with related logistics and program support.
The second proposal establishes a comprehensive training program through which the U.S. Army would provide initial to advanced flight and maintenance instruction for personnel from the Royal Saudi Land Forces Aviation Corps. Training would take place at U.S. bases using Apache, Chinook, Lakota, and Black Hawk platforms.
The Pentagon stated that these sales will enhance Saudi Arabia’s ability to sustain and safely operate its American-made helicopters while deepening interoperability with U.S. forces. The proposals would not alter the regional military balance or require additional U.S. personnel stationed in the kingdom.
