On November 18, 2025, the US and Saudi Arabia finalized a significant strategic defense agreement, which includes the sale of F-35 fighter jets and nearly 300 Abrams tanks, aimed at enhancing Saudi defense capabilities and regional deterrence. This historic deal, announced during Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s visit to the US, also incorporates civil nuclear cooperation and partnerships in artificial intelligence and critical minerals. While reinforcing US influence in the Middle East, the agreement ensures compliance with Israel’s Qualitative Military Edge requirements, thus maintaining regional military balance. The commitment to increase Saudi investments in the US from $600 billion to nearly $1 trillion further deepens the economic and military ties between the two nations, highlighting the growing strategic convergence amid evolving geopolitical dynamics.