Israel plans to request advanced military systems from the US to maintain its regional edge after Washington announced a $24.3-25 billion F-35 sale to Saudi Arabia.

The United States has notified Congress of a plan to sell Saudi Arabia up to 48 F-35 fighter jets in a deal valued between $24.3 billion and $25 billion. In response to the sale, which marks the first time an Arab nation would receive the fifth-generation aircraft, Israel intends to seek compensation from Washington in the form of advanced weapons systems previously withheld by the US.

Maintaining Qualitative Military Edge

Israeli officials have expressed a preference for no other Middle Eastern country to possess the F-35 to preserve Israel's qualitative operational advantage. However, defense officials noted that even if the deal proceeds, Saudi Arabia would not receive its first aircraft for at least five years. Israel maintains that its current advantage relies on the extensive operational experience of its pilots, the integration of Israeli-made weapons into its own F-35 fleet, and the use of a dedicated test aircraft for developing advanced capabilities.

Requested Compensation and Future Procurement

Israel is preparing to negotiate for weapons systems that the US has previously declined to provide, including specific bunker-busting munitions and systems designed for underground operations. Furthermore, Israeli officials are seeking greater participation in the development and production of classified weapons, including space-based technology and interceptors for the Arrow 4 and Arrow 5 systems.