US approves $1Bn military training program for Saudi Arabia.

In late December 2023, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) authorized a major military sale to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The deal, estimated at $1 billion, includes a comprehensive "Blanket Order Training" program along with related equipment.
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U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Dane Collette, 378th Air Expeditionary Wing safety director, greets members of the Royal Saudi Air Force during the annual RSAF Safety gathering at Prince Sultan Air Base (Picture source: US DoD)

This proposed training program is an extension of an existing initiative, which encompasses a wide range of training types both within and outside the kingdom. The program covers a spectrum of training, including flight training, professional military education, and technical as well as specialized training. Particular emphasis is placed on critical areas such as avoiding civilian casualties, understanding the laws of armed conflicts, human rights, and command and control.

This initiative aims not only to enhance Saudi Arabia's defense capabilities against current and future threats but also to bolster interoperability with U.S. forces. Additionally, it seeks to foster a more secure regional environment through a more proficient Royal Saudi Air Force (RSAF).

A unique aspect of this sale is the lack of a principal contractor, as the training will be provided by the U.S. government or contract vendors based on specific needs. It is also noteworthy that there are no offset agreements proposed in this sale.

Implementing this program will require the temporary or extended assignment of about 339 American trainers in Saudi Arabia for at least one year, with the possibility of an extension. This strategic decision is seen as a crucial step in strengthening the defense ties between the United States and Saudi Arabia while maintaining the military balance in the region.

Although the U.S.-Saudi relationship is not a formal military alliance like NATO, it is grounded in close military cooperation and substantial arms sales. This relationship has developed from shared interests in regional security and deterring threats from foreign or regional powers. The cooperation covers a wide range of security issues, including regional stability, counterterrorism, and air and missile defense. However, this relationship has experienced tensions and adjustments over time, particularly due to diverging political and strategic interests.

In terms of arms sales, Saudi Arabia is the largest customer of the U.S. Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program, with contracts amounting to over $140 billion. The U.S. has provided Saudi Arabia with a broad range of defense materials, including advanced weapon systems and military equipment. Notably, the sales to Saudi Arabia include PATRIOT MIM-104E Guidance Enhanced Missiles (GEM-T) and Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile defense systems. These sales reflect the U.S. commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia's defense capabilities and maintaining regional stability, highlighting the complexity and strategic nature of their bilateral relationship.

These sales are also expected to enhance interoperability between U.S. and Saudi Arabian forces. The State Department emphasized that these proposed sales would support U.S. foreign policy and national security goals by improving security in a region considered vital for political stability and economic progress in the Middle East.