US to sell F-35 jets to Saudi Arabia without Israel’s advanced features

US officials and defence experts say that the F-35 fighter jets being readied for sale to Saudi Arabia will not match the capabilities of the aircraft already in service with Israel.

Washington remains bound by laws ensuring Israel’s military edge in the Middle East, Reuters reported.

Officials clarified that the Saudi-bound aircraft will be delivered without several of the high-end features included in Israel’s F-35s—particularly advanced electronic warfare suites and specialised weapons systems.

Israel is the only country allowed to modify its F-35s extensively. It has approval to integrate domestic weaponry and to install upgrades such as “radar-jamming capabilities,” modifications that do not require US sign-off.

Despite these advantages, Israel’s Air Force expressed concern about the deal, submitting a position paper to its leadership warning the sale could affect its regional superiority.

Defence experts also say Riyadh is unlikely to receive the AIM-260 Joint Advanced Tactical Missile. The missile—described by one expert as the platform’s most sensitive long-range capability—is expected to be reserved for Israel.

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Each country receives a tailored version of the F-35, and the US retains the most advanced configuration. Officials noted that software restrictions alone would ensure the Lockheed Martin jets destined for the Kingdom remain less capable than Israel’s.

Israel also holds an advantage in fleet size. The country currently operates two F-35 squadrons, with a third on the way. Saudi Arabia, under the proposed terms, would be limited to two squadrons that would not reach the Kingdom for several years.

Having flown the F-35 for nearly eight years, Israel has also amassed operational experience unmatched in the region.