President Donald Trump said he has agreed to sell F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, reaffirming the deal during Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Washington visit despite concerns that China could gain access to sensitive technology and that Israel’s military edge could be affected as Trump seeks support for his Gaza peace plan. The announcement spotlights the F-35’s mixed record: praised as America’s most advanced stealth jet and coveted by allies, yet plagued by delays, soaring life cycle costs and readiness troubles. Critics call the program a failure; Lockheed Martin says it is combat proven and essential.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.