US President Donald Trump has confirmed the administration’s decision to sell advanced F-35 stealth fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, aligning with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s visit to Washington. This prospective sale, which Riyadh has pursued for years, represents a significant shift in the balance of air power within the Middle East, raising concerns regarding Israel’s Qualitative Military Edge and the potential for sensitive technology to reach China. The introduction of fifth-generation aircraft in the region compels India to accelerate its own air force modernization initiatives, particularly the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project, to ensure it maintains a technological advantage and regional air dominance. The deal’s announcement reflects a broader strategic positioning of the US in the Middle East as it seeks to bolster alliances while navigating complex geopolitical dynamics, including relations with Israel and China, which could directly impact India’s security and economic interests in an increasingly sophisticated global weapons landscape.