Washington, December 30: In one of their biggest armsdeal, the US and Saudi Arabia on Friday inked an agreement worthUSD 29.4 billion for sale of 80 new F-15SA combat jets andmodernisation of another 70, the White House announced amid heightened tension with Iran in the region.
“Valued at USD 29.4 billion, this agreement includesproduction of 84 new aircraft and the modernisation of 70existing aircraft as well as munitions, spare parts, training,maintenance and logistics,” White House Deputy PressSecretary, Josh Earnest, said in a statement.
The F-15SA aircraft, manufactured by The BoeingCompany, are among the most sophisticated and capable aircraftin the world.
Earnest said the US and Saudi Arabia have signed agovernment-to-government agreement under the Foreign MilitarySales programme to provide advanced F-15SA combat aircraft tothe Royal Saudi Air Force.
“This agreement will positively impact the USeconomy and further advances the president’s commitment tocreate jobs by increasing exports,” Earnest said.
According to industry experts, this agreement willsupport more than 50,000 American jobs, engaging 600 suppliersin 44 states, and providing USD 3.5 billion in annual economicimpact to the US economy.
“This agreement reinforces the strong and enduringrelationship between the United States and Saudi Arabia, anddemonstrates the US commitment to a strong Saudi defensecapability as a key component to regional security,” Earnestsaid.
-PTI