GA-ASI Pursues Massive Contract for Combat Drones and Fighter Jets Amid Saudi Arabia Visit

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems is in talks with Saudi Arabia for a potential $2.4 billion deal for up to 200 collaborative combat aircraft, including MQ-9B short takeoff and landing and Gambit series. The deal includes production localization in the Kingdom. GA-ASI’s president David Alexander discussed the talks and the company’s efforts to control drones from fighter jets. The UAE is also interested in a similar deal, and the company is waiting for conditions to be removed before proceeding. The deal is part of a broader effort to modernize Saudi Arabia’s military capabilities. This report is based on an interview with David Alexander on the sidelines of the Dubai Airshow.