US Approves Major New Arms Sales Exceeding $15 Billion: Israel and Saudi Arabia Defense Packages Confirmed

Pentagon officials have authorized approximately $16 billion in military equipment transfers to Israel and Saudi Arabia, demonstrating the Trump administration’s commitment to Middle Eastern security partnerships. The State Department confirmed Friday that Israel’s $6.67 billion package and Saudi Arabia’s $9 billion allocation will enhance allied capabilities.
The Israeli component encompasses four separate military acquisitions. Apache attack helicopters lead the package at $3.8 billion for 30 aircraft equipped with advanced rocket launchers and precision targeting systems. The State Department indicated these acquisitions will enhance Israel’s capability to meet current and future threats.
The procurement includes 3,250 light tactical vehicles worth $1.98 billion to facilitate faster troop deployment. Additional funding supports power pack upgrades for armored personnel carriers at $740 million and light utility helicopter acquisition at $150 million.
The Saudi Arabian transaction targets air defense exclusively, acquiring 730 Patriot missiles and supporting infrastructure for $9 billion. The State Department justified the sale as supporting foreign policy objectives.
Legislative pushback has emerged from Democratic congressional representatives. The House Foreign Affairs Committee’s ranking member criticized the administration’s approach to congressional oversight.