U.S. State Department Approves Sale of Dozens of Torpedoes to Saudi Arabia for $78.5 Million
In a significant military deal, the U.S. Department of State has given a green light to the potential sale of numerous torpedoes to Saudi Arabia, with an estimated value of $78.5 million (approximately Rp 1.2 trillion). This strategic move builds upon the existing defense collaboration between Washington and Riyadh.
The Pentagon has confirmed that these weapons are MK 54 MOD 0 Lightweight Torpedoes, with a total of 20 units set to be transferred to Saudi Arabia. According to Pentagon officials, as cited by Al Arabiya, this sale will enhance Saudi Arabia’s capabilities to prevent and counter current and future underwater threats, reinforcing their naval defense prowess.
"These defense articles will contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping Saudi Arabia to meet its legitimate self-defense needs," said Pentagon officials in a statement.
U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin has repeatedly reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to Saudi Arabia’s defense, most recently during discussions with Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Defense, Prince Khalid bin Salman. The conversation also touched on Saudi Arabia’s efforts to promote stability in the Middle East region.
Generals from both nations have continuously discussed regional security concerns and the importance of maintaining peace in the Middle East. In a joint statement, U.S. Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General CQ Brown and Saudi Chief of General Staff Fayyad Al-Ruwaili called for the peaceful resolution of tensions in the region, emphasizing the need to strengthen bilateral military ties through enhanced capacity building, training, and joint exercises.
This military sale underscores the U.S.’s continued commitment to supporting its allies in the Middle East, fostering strategic partnerships that contribute to regional stability and security.
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