WASHINGTON – The United States has approved a potential $1.96 billion arms sale to Saudi Arabia that includes up to 20,000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) II precision-guided rocket systems, in a move aimed at strengthening the kingdom’s air defense capabilities amid escalating regional security threats.
The U.S. State Department said the proposed Foreign Military Sale, which has been referred to Congress for review, also includes associated equipment, spare parts, logistics support, training, and technical assistance. The principal contractor for the package is BAE Systems, the manufacturer of the APKWS guidance system.
Washington said the sale would enhance Saudi Arabia’s ability to defend its territory, critical infrastructure and population against current and future aerial threats while improving interoperability between Saudi and U.S. forces. The State Department added that the transaction is consistent with U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives by supporting the security of a key regional partner.
The APKWS II is a laser-guided precision weapon that converts standard 70mm Hydra rockets into highly accurate munitions capable of engaging drones, lightly armored vehicles and other fast-moving targets at a lower cost than larger missiles. The system has been widely used by U.S. and allied forces in recent conflicts.
The proposed sale comes as Saudi Arabia faces renewed security concerns linked to regional instability, including continued threats from Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi movement, which has carried out missile and drone attacks against the kingdom in recent years. It also follows heightened tensions across the Middle East after months of regional military confrontations involving Iran and its allies.
Under U.S. law, Congress has the authority to review major foreign military sales before they can proceed, although such transactions are rarely blocked once approved by the State Department.
