What Happened
Intelligence Officials Raise Concerns Over Chinese Access to Sensitive Military Technology
US intelligence officials have warned that a proposed $24 billion sale of F-35 fighters to Saudi Arabia could give China access to sensitive American military technology, according to a report by The New York Times. The concerns center around Chinese military access to Saudi bases and the kingdom’s use of Chinese telecommunications equipment. The State Department submitted a proposed package of 48 fighters and a spare engine to congressional committees in June 2026. The sale has raised questions about preserving Israel’s military advantage in the region and has been met with concerns from Israeli officials. The proposal was first reported by AeroTime.