Washington, Sep. 18 (SANA)The US Department of State approved a potential 24.3 billion dollar military sale of Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II stealth fighter jets toSaudi Arabia.

According to a report by Reuters on Friday, the proposed defense agreement includes 48 stealth fighter aircraft representing two full air force squadrons, 49 Pratt & Whitney engines, tactical communications equipment, spare parts, and long-term technical support.

The potential deal, which still requires approval from theU.S. Congress, marks a major step in Saudi Arabia’s multi-year effort to modernize its air force, which currently operates Boeing F-15s, Eurofighter Typhoons, and Panavia Tornados. Saudi officials welcomed the announcement on social media, stating that the agreement demonstrates the enduring nature of the Saudi-U.S. strategic partnership.

The F-35 is a stealth fighter designed to evade detection by enemy radar and is widely regarded as one of the world’s most advanced fighter aircraft.