The US has approved two potential FMS cases for Saudi Arabia totaling $1 billion. Each $500-million package is now under congressional review. The first provides a Cooperative Logistics Supply Support Arrangement giving Riyadh access to US systems for ordering spare parts and repairs for its helicopter fleet—including Apaches, Black Hawks, Chinooks, and training aircraft. The second establishes a comprehensive training program enabling the US Army to provide flight and maintenance instruction for Saudi personnel across multiple helicopter platforms. The Pentagon says the sales will strengthen Saudi Arabia’s operational safety and interoperability with US forces, without altering regional balance or requiring extra US personnel in the kingdom.
