U.S. approves $1.96 billion arms sale to Saudi Arabia

The United States has approved a proposed $1.96 billion arms sale to Saudi Arabia, a move officials say is intended to bolster the kingdom's air defense capabilities amid escalating regional tensions. The State Department announced the authorization on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, describing the sale as supporting U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives by strengthening a major non-NATO ally.

The proposed package includes up to 20,000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon Systems (APKWS), along with launchers, rocket motors, spare parts, and technical support. The U.S. Navy describes the APKWS as an affordable, precision-guided weapon designed to limit collateral damage in close combat. The primary contractor for the deal will be BAE Systems, based in Nashua, New Hampshire. Officials stated the sale will improve Saudi Arabia's ability to counter current and emerging threats, enhance its homeland defense, and increase military interoperability with U.S. and allied forces. They also emphasized that the transaction would not adversely impact U.S. defense readiness.

The announcement comes as security concerns mount across the Middle East. It follows renewed hostilities between...