New Delhi. The proposed US sale of 48 F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia has raised concerns that China could seek access to sensitive technology associated with the advanced aircraft. US intelligence analysts have warned that China could potentially use its existing military and security presence, technological cooperation and intelligence networks in Saudi Arabia to obtain information related to the F-35’s stealth capabilities and other sensitive systems.
According to the reported intelligence assessments, US agencies have expressed concerns over China’s activities in Saudi Arabia. Particular attention has been drawn to potential Chinese access to Saudi military facilities and the presence of Chinese technology in the country’s telecommunications infrastructure. Analysts have assessed that such access could potentially be used to gather information related to the F-35.
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The F-35 is among the world’s most advanced fighter aircraft, featuring stealth capabilities, sophisticated sensors, electronic warfare systems and the ability to operate as part of integrated military networks. Any potential compromise of information related to the aircraft’s technology could therefore have significant implications for US defence interests.
China and Saudi Arabia have expanded their defence and technological cooperation in recent years. Against this backdrop, US analysts have raised concerns that Beijing could potentially use its existing relationships with Riyadh to obtain sensitive information related to military systems. However, the available information does not establish that China has successfully obtained F-35 technology or carried out a successful operation targeting the aircraft’s technology.
The proposed package is reported to include 48 F-35 aircraft and an additional engine, with an estimated value of about $24 billion, equivalent to roughly ₹2 lakh crore. The US administration announced the proposed deal with Saudi Arabia last November. In June, the US State Department sent a package involving the proposed sale to two congressional committees as part of the notification process.
The proposed F-35 sale to Saudi Arabia involves more than a defence transaction. It also raises questions about protecting the aircraft’s advanced technology, controlling foreign access to Saudi military facilities and managing the broader strategic relationship between the United States, Saudi Arabia and China.
Following the reported intelligence assessments, some members of Congress and congressional staff have questioned administration officials about the potential security risks identified by US intelligence agencies. The US government has not so far issued a detailed public statement addressing these intelligence concerns.
Protection of technology associated with the F-35 programme has long been a sensitive issue for the United States. In the case of the proposed Saudi deal, the level of access to the aircraft’s technology, maintenance infrastructure and associated communications systems is expected to remain an important part of the security assessment.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
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