THIS DAWN — In a sweeping diplomatic move, the United States President Donald Trump, on Tuesday, formally designated Saudi Arabia as a “major non-NATO ally,” elevating bilateral military cooperation to new heights.
The announcement came during a state-style, black-tie dinner at the White House honoring Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
Trump hailed the designation as a milestone in U.S.-Saudi relations.
He called it a step toward a “stronger and more capable alliance” that would support shared security interests.
He also revealed that the two nations signed a “historic strategic defense agreement” earlier in the day.
The pact was meant to fortify deterrence across the Middle East, boost procurement of U.S. military equipment, and enhance cooperation on advanced technology.
Under the new status, Saudi Arabia gains access to multiple defense perks, including:
- easier transfers of U.S.-made weapons,
- eligibility to bid on Pentagon contracts, and,
- potential storage of U.S. military materiel on Saudi soil.
Critically, however, the move does not guarantee a mutual defense pact akin to NATO’s.
Significantly, Trump also confirmed plans to sell F-35 stealth fighter jets to Riyadh, marking a major policy shift.
It this pulls through, Saudi Arabia would become the first Middle Eastern nation beyond Israel to receive these advanced aircraft.
Massive economic commitment
According to reports, the deal may include as many as 48 jets, alongside a purchase of roughly 300 U.S.-made tanks.
The announcement, meanwhile, comes alongside a massive economic commitment.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman pledged to boost Saudi investment in the United States from $600 billion to nearly $1 trillion.
Trump framed the strengthened alliance as not only a win for defense but also a potential engine for U.S. job creation, economic growth, and long-term peace in the region.
Critics, however, have raised eyebrows.
Some analysts worry that providing advanced military technology to Saudi Arabia — particularly F-35 jets — could upset regional power balances.
Others question the symbolic nature of the non-NATO label, noting that it does not obligate Washington to defend Riyadh in times of war.
Nonetheless, the move signals a clear pivot in U.S. foreign policy.
It is a recommitment to a longstanding Gulf partner and a deepening of strategic ties under Trump’s new terms.
