The United States has approved a $3.5 billion sale of air-to-air missiles to Saudi Arabia, a move timed ahead of President Trump's upcoming visit to the region. The deal, which involves sophisticated AIM-120C-8 missiles for Saudi F-15 jets, underscores the continuing strategic ties between the U.S. and the Gulf states. This arms sale is part of broader economic engagements, with Saudi Arabia planning significant investments in the U.S. to strengthen bilateral relations. However, the sale is subject to Congressional review amid ongoing scrutiny over Saudi Arabia's actions in Yemen and the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. The U.S. aims to enhance regional stability and security through such sales, aligning with its foreign policy and national security interests.

The arms sale involves 1,000 AIM-120C-8 advanced medium-range air-to-air missiles and is part of a broader pattern of military cooperation between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia, reflecting enduring strategic ties.

President Trump's visit to Saudi Arabia is expected to highlight several arms deals, with this missile sale being a significant component, as Saudi Arabia also plans to invest $600 billion in the U.S. over the next four years.

The decision to approve the sale reflects U.S. foreign policy goals of improving security and political stability in the Gulf region, despite potential opposition from Congress due to Saudi Arabia's controversial actions.

Congressional scrutiny remains intense due to Saudi Arabia's military actions in Yemen and the assassination of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, which has led to previous tensions between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia.

This arms deal is part of a series of U.S. military sales to Gulf countries, including a separate $2 billion drone sale to Qatar, emphasizing the U.S.'s strategic interests in maintaining regional alliances and influence.