US Plans $100 Billion Arms Deal with Saudi Arabia Ahead of Trump's Visit

The United States is preparing to offer Saudi Arabia an arms package exceeding $100 billion, expected to be announced during President Donald Trump's visit to the kingdom in May. This significant proposal follows the Biden administration's unsuccessful attempt to secure a defense pact with Riyadh, which had included conditions to limit Chinese arms purchases and investments. It remains unclear whether the Trump administration's deal will feature similar stipulations regarding China. Major U.S. defense contractors, including Lockheed Martin, RTX Corp, Boeing, Northrop Grumman, and General Atomics, are anticipated to supply advanced weaponry such as C-130 transport aircraft, missiles, radars, and potentially drones. The deal is seen as a continuation of the Trump administration's emphasis on arms sales as a benefit for U.S. jobs, though no official comments have yet been made by the White House or Saudi officials. Some elements of the package have reportedly been in discussion for several years, and the deal will likely undergo Congressional review due to prior controversies involving U.S. arms sales to Saudi Arabia.