Micah Jonah
January 31, 2026
The United States government has approved a potential sale of Patriot interceptor missiles and related equipment to Saudi Arabia valued at about $9 billion, the Pentagon announced on Friday.
According to the Pentagon, the approval follows a formal request by Saudi Arabia to purchase 730 Patriot Advanced Capability 3 Missile Segment Enhancement (PAC-3 MSE) interceptors. The missiles are designed to strengthen air and missile defence against advanced threats.
Lockheed Martin Corporation has been identified as the principal contractor for the proposed sale, which also includes associated support and equipment.
US authorities said the transaction would not alter the military balance in the Middle East and would not negatively affect American defence readiness.
The proposed sale is subject to approval by the US Congress, as required under the country’s arms export regulations.
