The Trump administration is advancing Saudi Arabia’s request to purchase up to 48 Lockheed Martin F-35 fighter jets, a deal that has significant implications for the strategic dynamics in the Middle East and India’s regional interests. The sale, which has passed a crucial Pentagon review, could enhance Saudi military capabilities, potentially disrupting Israel’s regional advantage and impacting U.S. arms transfer policies. With Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 focusing on defense modernization, India’s security posture may require recalibration as a strengthened Saudi Air Force could alter Gulf defense partnerships. This development signals a pivotal shift that could affect the overall strategic balance in the region, particularly concerning adversarial states and non-state actors.