US and Saudi Arabia Cement Strategic Alliance with Landmark Defense, Nuclear, and AI Deals
The United States and Saudi Arabia have solidified their strategic alliance by signing a comprehensive set of agreements covering civil nuclear cooperation, artificial intelligence, and a significant defense package, including the long-awaited sale of advanced F-35 fighter jets. These landmark deals, announced by the White House, aim to deepen bilateral ties, enhance regional security, and open new avenues for economic collaboration.
A Decades-Long Nuclear Partnership
Central to these new arrangements is a joint declaration on Civil Nuclear Energy Cooperation. This pivotal agreement establishes the legal framework for a multi-billion-dollar partnership designed to span decades, built upon stringent non-proliferation standards. It marks a significant step towards Saudi Arabia's civil nuclear ambitions while ensuring responsible development.
Boosting Saudi Airpower with F-35s and Advanced Defense
In a move that will considerably bolster Saudi airpower, US President Donald Trump gave the green light to a major defense sale package. This includes the future delivery of sophisticated F-35 aircraft and nearly 300 American tanks. This Strategic Defence Agreement reinforces an existing security partnership that spans over 80 years, bolstering deterrence across the Middle East. Beyond strategic implications, the White House highlighted that this defense package is expected to support the US industrial base and create numerous high-paying jobs for American workers.
Broader Economic and Technological Collaboration
The agreements extend beyond defense and nuclear energy, encompassing a broader range of sectors detailed in a White House factsheet. A new framework on critical minerals aims to diversify global supply chains, enhancing economic resilience for both nations. Furthermore, an artificial intelligence (AI) memorandum of understanding will grant Saudi Arabia access to advanced American AI systems, while crucially ensuring robust protections for US technology.
These extensive commitments follow a recent visit by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to the United States. During this visit, Saudi Arabia significantly increased its investment pledges in the US, escalating from the $600 billion announced during President Trump's earlier visit to Riyadh to an impressive nearly $1 trillion. This surge in investment underscores the growing economic interdependence and mutual commitment to a robust bilateral relationship. The White House emphasized that these agreements are poised to strengthen the US-Saudi strategic partnership, expand opportunities for American workers, and contribute significantly to regional stability.