Israel plans to demand additional defense capabilities from Washington amid the US preparing to sell F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia.
Modern.az reports that, according to Israel's “Walla” portal, the US has informed the Israeli side about its plan to sell F-35s worth approximately $25 billion to Saudi Arabia. The value of the possible sales package approved by the US State Department is $24.3 billion, and the number of aircraft envisioned is 48. Congressional procedures must also be completed for the agreement to take effect.
According to Israeli officials, Tel Aviv intends to demand certain “compensation” from the US in order to maintain its “qualitative military edge” in the region.
Israel's requests may include access to advanced defense systems not yet provided to it, participation in the development of classified military projects, expanded cooperation on “Arrow-4” and “Arrow-5” missile defense systems, as well as space-based defense capabilities.
A source who spoke to “Walla” stated that the Israeli army would prefer that other countries in the Middle East not acquire F-35s. However, it is noted that the first delivery of aircraft to Saudi Arabia would take several years after a possible agreement.
The Israeli side also believes that the country's operational experience with F-35s and the integration of Israeli-made systems into the aircraft give it an advantage in the region.
