The Pentagon has authorized one of the largest combined arms sale packages to Middle Eastern nations in recent years, with Israel and Saudi Arabia receiving approval for $6.67 billion and $9 billion in military equipment respectively. The State Department’s Friday evening announcement signals strong American backing for regional allies amid growing security concerns.
Israel’s comprehensive $6.67 billion package prioritizes offensive and defensive capabilities through four strategic procurement streams. The crown jewel involves 30 Apache attack helicopters equipped with sophisticated rocket systems and precision targeting technology, representing a $3.8 billion investment in airborne strike capacity that will modernize Israel’s helicopter fleet and enhance rapid response capabilities.
Complementing the aerial assets, Israel will acquire 3,250 light tactical vehicles in a $1.98 billion deal designed to revolutionize ground force mobility. These vehicles will facilitate swift troop deployments, strengthen supply chains, and extend the operational range of Israeli Defense Forces across challenging geographic terrain, from desert environments to urban settings.
The Saudi Arabian procurement concentrates exclusively on defensive systems, with 730 Patriot missiles forming the core of the $9 billion package. According to State Department officials, these advanced interceptors will substantially improve Saudi Arabia’s ability to defend against airborne threats while contributing to the broader regional missile defense architecture that protects American interests and allied nations throughout the Gulf.
Political controversy has emerged on Capitol Hill, where Democratic leadership questions the expedited approval process. The ranking member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee has characterized the announcements as disregarding established congressional oversight protocols, particularly concerning ongoing policy discussions about Gaza reconstruction and the next phases of the Trump administration’s ceasefire plan.