China could acquire F-35 fighter jet technology through Saudi Arabia, US officials warn – report

US intelligence officials have expressed concerns that China could gain access to F-35 fighter jet technology via Saudi Arabia, according to a report by The New York Times. These fears arise from a pending multi-billion-dollar sale of 48 F-35 aircraft to Saudi Arabia, a deal first announced in November 2025. Officials suggest China could acquire the technology through espionage or its military and security partnership with Saudi Arabia.

• A Pentagon intelligence report recommended restricting F-35 technology storage sites to US and Saudi personnel.
• Analysts questioned Saudi Arabia's willingness to limit contact with the Chinese military and remove Chinese-manufactured equipment from its telecommunications infrastructure.
• The potential deal has also raised concerns regarding Israel's qualitative military edge in the Middle East, as Israel is currently the only country in the region operating F-35 jets.