Pentagon Intelligence Flags Risk That F-35 Tech Could Reach China in Proposed Saudi Sale

Overview

• The assessment, reported by the New York Times, warns Chinese access could occur through espionage or China–Saudi security cooperation.
• The Trump administration is weighing Riyadh’s request to buy 48 F-35s, according to Reuters, with no final approval to date.
• Defense officials also worry about preserving Israel’s qualitative military edge, as Israel is currently the Middle East’s only F-35 operator.
• Saudi officials are pursuing a broader package that includes U.S. civilian nuclear assistance alongside the fighter request.
• The intelligence warnings have emerged as a central complication in U.S.–Saudi negotiations expected to feature during next week’s Washington meetings.