Saudi Arabia Eyes F-35 Stealth Fighters in Historic US Defense Deal Amidst China’s Rising Influence

 

Saudi Arabia is on the brink of securing a landmark defense deal with the United States, potentially involving the purchase of F-35 Lightning II stealth fighters. This development comes as the US seeks to counter China's growing influence in the Persian Gulf.

On May 20, the White House announced significant progress in negotiations between US national security officials and Saudi Arabia, edging closer to finalizing a bilateral defense agreement. John Kirby, the White House national security spokesperson, indicated that both nations are "closer than we’ve ever been" to reaching a near-final agreement.

While specifics of the deal remain undisclosed, it is believed that the agreement could include a formal US commitment to defend Saudi Arabia in return for Riyadh limiting or suspending arms purchases from China. An American official hinted that discussions about supplying F-35 fighter jets and other weapons to Saudi Arabia are part of the talks, though no definitive promises have been made.

Historically, a major barrier to selling F-35 jets to Saudi Arabia has been the US's obligation to maintain Israel’s military superiority in the region. This agreement ensures that US-supplied weapons to Israel remain superior to those sold to neighboring countries. Consequently, Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states have considered alternative fighter jets like the French Dassault Rafale or the Eurofighter Typhoon.

Analysts believe that a sale of F-35s to Saudi Arabia could reinforce US commitment to the region's security, ensuring Saudi dependence on US training, maintenance, logistics, and interoperability. Despite these potential benefits, maintaining Israel's air superiority remains a critical factor.

The US's interest in securing this deal is driven by concerns over China's expanding footprint in the Middle East. Since the launch of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in 2013, China has increased its economic and military presence in the region. In 2022, Saudi Arabia reportedly signed $4 billion in arms deals with China, including drones and missile systems, but not high-value assets like fighter jets.

China and Saudi Arabia's military cooperation has intensified, evidenced by their joint naval drills in 2023. Additionally, China brokered a détente between Saudi Arabia and Iran, highlighting its growing diplomatic influence.

US officials worry that China’s increasing influence is filling a void left by strained US-Saudi relations, worsened by incidents like the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi and disagreements over oil production during the Ukraine war.

Speculation is growing that the impending US-Saudi defense pact might not match a NATO-style agreement but will still involve substantial military cooperation. Reports suggest the deal could include sharing advanced technology like artificial intelligence and quantum computing, as well as supporting Saudi Arabia’s civilian nuclear program.

The Biden administration’s negotiations also seek to address Israel and Palestinian issues, aiming for regional stability. Last year’s attempts to broker peace between Saudi Arabia and Israel failed following renewed conflict in Gaza.

While optimism surrounds the potential defense deal, challenges remain, particularly Saudi demands for Israel to cease actions against Hamas and progress towards an independent Palestinian state. Kirby noted that while an exact timeline for the deal is uncertain, talks are on a positive trajectory.

Argentina Mulls Formal Inspection of Chinese 'Space Station' Amid Growing Tensions

 Argentina's stance on its relationship with China is increasingly evident, with plans underway for a formal inspection of a Chinese "space station" situated on Argentine soil. The station, established in 2014 under an agreement with the previous administration, has raised concerns and triggered suspicions within the US government.

The Argentine government is considering a thorough inspection to evaluate potential irregularities associated with the base and ensure compliance with contractual obligations. This move coincides with Argentina's recent procurement of surplus F-16 fighter jets from Denmark, signaling a shift towards alignment with Western powers under President Javier Milei's leadership.

While China claims the station is for peaceful space exploration, concerns persist about its military implications and the lack of Argentine oversight. US officials have expressed skepticism, highlighting the need for transparency regarding China's activities at the base.

Despite past defenses of the station by Argentine administrations, questions remain about its operational control and the extent of Chinese military involvement. While some experts suggest US concerns may be overstated, the inspection reflects Argentina's efforts to assert control over its territory amid geopolitical tensions.

Thailand's Fighter Jet Decision: Boeing F-16, SAAB Gripen, or Korean FA-50?

 Thailand is considering acquiring a new fourth-generation fighter aircraft, with options including the Boeing F-16 and SAAB Gripen. Now, the South Korean contractor Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) has thrown its hat into the ring, proposing its FA-50 light fighter aircraft to the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF).

KAI's proposal comes in response to an informal request for proposals (RFP) from the RTAF, aiming to replace aging Lockheed Martin F-16A/Bs. While the FA-50 offers advanced capabilities at a lower cost and with timely delivery, the RTAF had initially shown interest in fifth-generation F-35 Lightning II aircraft.

The FA-50, an export success for KAI, boasts features such as Tactical Data Link and Precision Guided Munitions. It has been actively deployed by the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) since 2013 and has garnered significant orders from countries like Poland and Malaysia.

Despite initial interest in the F-35, the RTAF aims to bolster its air power with potent fighter jets. The competition now includes the F-16 Block 70/72 Viper and SAAB Gripen-E, both offering advanced capabilities in their generation.

With the entry of the FA-50 into the contest, the RTAF faces a three-way decision, potentially reshaping its evaluation process and strategic considerations.

U.S. Navy to Commission SSN New Jersey: A Strategic Boost Amidst Rising Tensions

On April 6, the U.S. Navy will commission the SSN New Jersey, a Virginia-class fast-attack submarine, marking a significant addition to its submarine fleet. The commissioning ceremony will take place at Naval Weapons Station Earle (NWSE) in Monmouth County, New Jersey.

Commissioner Susan M. Kiley, liaison to the Office on Veteran Services, noted that the USS New Jersey, also known as Pre-Commission Unit 796, is the third naval vessel named after the state of New Jersey. The submarine, officially designated as SSN 796, comes with a hefty price tag of approximately $3.5 billion.

The Virginia-class submarines, designed to remain operational until the 2070s, boast advanced weapons systems and nuclear-powered capabilities, enabling extended operations without refueling. A simulated wargame conducted by the Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) highlighted the effectiveness of submarines like the Virginia class in countering potential threats, particularly from China.

With the USS New Jersey's deployment, the U.S. Navy aims to enhance its strategic capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region, where tensions are on the rise. Equipped with sophisticated weaponry and stealth capabilities, the Virginia-class submarines remain among the deadliest assets in the Navy's arsenal.

However, challenges lie ahead in meeting production targets, given the strain on naval shipyards and commitments under international partnerships like AUKUS. Despite these challenges, the U.S. remains committed to bolstering its submarine fleet to maintain strategic superiority.

As the USS New Jersey joins the fleet, it underscores the Navy's ongoing efforts to modernize its capabilities and adapt to evolving security threats worldwide. 

US Army to Deploy Typhon Weapon System: A Strategic Move Amid China Tensions

 

Amidst heightened tensions in the Indo-Pacific, the US Army is set to deploy a new medium-range missile launcher, aiming to counter China's military advancements. General Charles Flynn confirmed this development during a media briefing in Tokyo, emphasizing the critical need for long-range precision fire capabilities in the region.

While specific deployment details remain undisclosed, the Typhon system, capable of launching Tomahawk cruise missiles and SM-6 interceptor missiles, is speculated to be the chosen weapon system. This deployment marks a significant move, reintroducing such a system to the Indo-Pacific region since the Cold War era.

The development of the Typhon system addresses the gap in mid-range capability, with potential deployment locations including Japan or US territories in the area. However, challenges in gaining public support and Tokyo's counterstrike plans may influence deployment decisions.

Considering China's military activities and possession of numerous missiles, deploying the Typhon system could bolster deterrence against potential threats, particularly in areas near Taiwan and the disputed South China Sea.

IAF Apache Helicopter Incident Adds to String of Crashes: Safety Concerns Near China Border

 An Apache helicopter belonging to the Indian Air Force (IAF) made an emergency landing in Ladakh, sustaining damage due to the rugged terrain and high altitude. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday, resulted in both pilots escaping unharmed. A Court of Inquiry has been initiated to determine the cause of the incident, as stated by the IAF.

This occurrence follows a series of crashes involving Apache helicopters, raising concerns about their safety. In the US Army, four crashes within two months prompted investigations and safety reviews. The most recent incident on March 27 near Fort Carson, Colo., led to minor injuries to the pilots, prompting grounding of aviation assets at the base.

Similarly, a crash on March 25 at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash., resulted in injuries to the pilots, with investigations underway. The string of accidents includes tragedies like the crash of a Mississippi National Guard Apache on February 23, claiming both pilots' lives.

With over 700 Apaches in service across active-duty units and the Army National Guard, safety remains a top priority. As investigations continue, ensuring the safety and readiness of these aircraft is crucial, given the Apache's longstanding role in military operations since its introduction in 1984.

Taiwan's Upgraded F-16 Vipers Suffer Earthquake Damage: Strategic Implications Amid China's Military Buildup

 Taiwan experienced a powerful 7.2-magnitude earthquake on April 3, causing significant damage and prompting the Republic of China Air Force (ROCAF) to evaluate the impact on its military assets, particularly its fleet of F-16 fighters.

The earthquake, centered off the coast of Hualien, resulted in casualties and widespread destruction, with reports indicating damage to upgraded F-16 fighters stationed at Hualien Air Base, near the epicenter. While official sources confirmed minor damage to six F-16 jets, alternative reports suggested a higher number of affected aircraft.

Damage to the F-16s was primarily superficial, limited to minor scratches and components dislodged due to the tremors. Immediate repair efforts were initiated to restore operational readiness, although reports hinted at cracks in infrastructure at Hualien Air Base, underscoring its strategic importance in Taiwan's defense posture against potential Chinese threats.

Taiwan's investment in upgrading its F-16 fleet to the advanced Block 70/72 Viper configuration reflects its commitment to modernizing its air defense capabilities. Equipped with state-of-the-art avionics, including the Northrop Grumman AN/APG-83 Scalable Agile Beam Radar (SABR), these aircraft offer increased detection and engagement ranges, enhancing Taiwan's ability to counter various threats, including cruise missiles.

Moreover, the F-16V's versatility in armament, featuring advanced missiles like the AGM-84 Harpoon and AGM-88 High-Speed Anti-Radiation (HARM), further strengthens Taiwan's defensive capabilities. However, delays in the procurement of new F-16 Block 70/72 Vipers pose challenges amid escalating tensions with China and underscore the need for Taiwan to bolster its air defense infrastructure for strategic resilience.