US approves $2.25 billion in new arms sales to Saudi Arabia, UAE

The United States has approved new weapons sales to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) worth $2.25 billion, the Pentagon says. 

In separate announcements, the Pentagon said that the State Department had authorized potential arms sales to Saudi Arabia, including 220 AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder Tactical Missiles and related equipment worth $251.8 million.

Additionally, the US approved the possible sale of 2,503 AGM-114R3 Hellfire II missiles, along with logistical support, totaling an estimated $655 million.

“The proposed sale will enhance Saudi Arabia’s ability to address current and future threats, and improve interoperability with systems operated by US Forces and other [Persian] Gulf countries,” the Pentagon said.

Another approval covered a $139 million deal for 10,000 M456 series, 105mm High Explosive Anti-Tank Tracer cartridges, as well as various types of tank, howitzer, and machine gun ammunition.

Earlier this week, in a call with Saudi Arabia’s Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman, Pentagon chief Lloyd Austin reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to the kingdom’s defense.

In a separate development, the Pentagon announced the approval of a $1.2 billion deal for 259 Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) M31A1 Unitary Pods, containing 1,554 missiles, and 203 Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) M57 Unitary Missiles, to the UAE.

Back in September 2023, US and Saudi officials reportedly discussed a security agreement similar to those Washington has with East Asian allies, seen as part of efforts to encourage Saudi Arabia to normalize relations with Israel.

According to unnamed American officials cited by the New York Times, the administration of US President Joe Biden is in talks with Saudi Arabia about a “mutual defense treaty” resembling US military agreements with Japan and South Korea.

The report noted that under the arrangement, both the United States and Saudi Arabia would commit to providing military support if either country is attacked in the region or on Saudi soil.

The proposed deal is a key element of Biden’s diplomatic efforts to encourage Saudi Arabia to normalize relations with Israel, the report added.

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