US Intelligence Warns F-35 Sale to Saudi Arabia Risks Technology Leak to China
US intelligence warns that selling F-35 jets to Saudi Arabia risks leaking technology to China. Meanwhile, amid Houthi attacks, Riyadh faces regional pressure and seeks alliances.
US intelligence reports warn that selling advanced F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia could lead to sensitive technology leaking to China, the New York Times reported. Similar concerns were raised during attempts to sell the jets to the United Arab Emirates in 2020.
According to the report, a detailed document issued several months ago by the Pentagon's Defense Intelligence Agency examined the Chinese military's access to bases in Saudi Arabia and Riyadh's use of Chinese technology in its communications infrastructure. The report also questions the ability of Americans and Saudis to maintain secure facilities housing F-35 technology in the kingdom.
Saudi Requests and Regional Threats
Saudi Arabia has long sought to purchase the aircraft from the US, and President Donald Trump agreed to the request last November. Riyadh remains the largest customer for US weaponry of all kinds.
One of the main reasons the Saudis currently require a significant air advantage is their ongoing, less-than-successful campaign against the Houthi terrorist organization. The Houthis are attempting to establish themselves as a regional player after taking control of the strategic Bab el-Mandeb strait.
The Houthis intend to expand the military struggle in the Saudi kingdom and use previously unused capabilities, shifting the combat to Saudi Arabia's southern border.
Israeli Perspective and Regional Dynamics
Following their takeover of the strategic strait, the Saudis even asked Israel for assistance in the fight against the Houthis, much as Israel has helped other Persian Gulf Arab states.
Israel is examining the conflict between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis, identifying an opportunity to leverage Saudi distress amid intensified Houthi attacks. However, a risk worrying Israel is that the situation might push the Saudis toward an agreement with the Houthis that ends the conflict in the Arabian Peninsula while leaving Israel alone to deal with the Yemeni rebels.
