The United States has approved a $1.96 billion weapons package for Saudi Arabia, including 20,000 precision-guided systems, as Washington seeks to bolster the kingdom’s air defence amid escalating regional security challenges.
The United States has approved a weapons package worth approximately $1.96 billion for Saudi Arabia, reinforcing the kingdom’s air defence capabilities as security tensions continue to escalate across the Middle East.
According to US officials, the proposed sale includes up to 20,000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon Systems (APKWS), related equipment and warheads. The precision-guided systems are designed to improve strike accuracy against military targets while minimizing unintended collateral damage.
Washington said the sale aligns with its foreign policy and national security objectives by strengthening the defence of one of its key Gulf partners. US officials believe the package will enhance Saudi Arabia’s ability to respond to current and future threats, improve territorial defence and expand military coordination with US and allied forces during joint operations.
BAE Systems is expected to serve as the principal contractor for the defence agreement.
The approval comes amid heightened instability across the Middle East, where tensions have intensified following recent exchanges involving the United States, Iran and Iran-backed armed groups.
Saudi Arabia has also faced renewed security concerns after Yemen’s Houthi movement launched missile attacks targeting Abha International Airport earlier this week. The incident has renewed fears of further escalation in the long-running conflict between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis.
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