The U.S. has approved a $100 million arms sale to Saudi Arabia for advanced precision rockets as tensions with the Houthi movement increase. This deal includes 2,000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon Systems (APKWS) targeted at enhancing Saudi military capabilities. The transaction underscores the close U.S.-Saudi relationship amid shared concerns over regional stability and Iranian influence.

The U.S. State Department has approved a $100 million sale of high precision weaponry to Saudi Arabia, which marks a significant step in enhancing the kingdom’s military capabilities amid the escalating conflict with the Houthis in Yemen. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) announced this development, highlighting the close military ties between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia as key allies in promoting political stability in the Gulf region.

Saudi Arabia’s request includes 2,000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon Systems (APKWS), a lightweight and cost-effective laser-guided rocket designed to engage targets with precision while minimizing collateral damage. BAE Systems of Falls Church, Virginia is the principal contractor for this defense deal. This transaction is notable as it introduces advanced precision-guided systems to the Saudi military’s arsenal, distinguishing it from previous and larger arms sales.

The U.S. Central Military Command (CENTCOM) has effectively utilized APKWS rockets in conflicts, particularly against Iranian-backed Houthi drones. This latest arms sale underscores the strategic partnership between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia, which has expanded under recent administrations. During a meeting with Prince Khalid bin Salman Al Saud, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized the vital nature of U.S.-Saudi cooperation in combating terrorism, including threats posed by the Houthis.

Statements from officials highlight the sale’s significance in bolstering Saudi defensive capabilities. The Pentagon’s DSCA noted, “The proposed sale will improve the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s capability to meet current and future threats and give it the ability to precisely engage targets with much less risk of collateral damage than other guided missile systems.” This reflects the imperative for enhanced military readiness as regional tensions escalate.

In summary, the U.S. has approved a significant arms sale to Saudi Arabia, valued at $100 million, comprising advanced precision weaponry aimed at strengthening the kingdom’s military efforts against the Houthi conflict in Yemen. This sale not only symbolizes the enduring partnership between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia but also showcases the strategic importance of precision-guided systems in modern warfare. As both nations remain focused on common security challenges, particularly those presented by Iranian influence in the region, the implications of this sale may strengthen future collaborations.

Original Source: www.newsweek.com

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