The long-standing strategic relationship between Riyadh and Washington is showing signs of tension, as Saudi Arabia’s growing interest in Turkey’s fifth-generation fighter jets raises concerns in the Trump administration about potential disruptions to U.S. defense market dominance.
Last November, President Donald Trump hosted Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the White House, promising a ceremonial sale of advanced F-35 fighter jets. However, the current reality is more complex. U.S. officials have confirmed that while Saudi Arabia has pledged not to purchase Pakistan’s JF-17 jets, no explicit commitment has been made regarding Turkish fighter jets. Washington fears that a purchase from Ankara could reduce the potential volume of U.S. arms sales.
Defense experts note that Saudi Arabia is pursuing a dual strategy: securing cutting-edge F-35 technology from the U.S. while leveraging co-production and technology transfer opportunities with Turkey to strengthen its domestic defense sector. The U.S. policy of maintaining Israel’s military edge means that Saudi Arabia often receives only partial access to the full capabilities of American technology. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has hinted that Saudi Arabia may be provided F-35 jets of lower specifications compared to those supplied to Israel, prompting Riyadh to consider Turkey as an alternative, given Ankara’s willingness to partner on both sales and domestic technology development.
The issue extends beyond commerce, reflecting deeper Middle Eastern geopolitics. In response to the growing UAE-Israel alignment, Saudi Arabia is exploring a new regional bloc with Turkey, Qatar, Egypt, and Pakistan. Disagreements with the UAE over Sudan and Yemen are now openly acknowledged. Under Saudi Vision 2030, the kingdom aims to allocate half of its defense budget to domestic production, which may conflict with U.S. strategic priorities.
Overall, the clash between the Trump administration’s “America First” defense policy and Saudi Arabia’s multifaceted approach to military procurement may influence the balance of power in the Middle East in the years ahead.
Source:Middle East Eye.