United States and Saudi Arabia sign massive defense deal worth $110 bn 22205171

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Defence & Security News - Saudi Arabia
 
 
United States and Saudi Arabia sign massive defense deal worth $110 bn
The United States and Saudi Arabia signed on Saturday, May 20, a massive defense deal worth 110 billions of U.S. dollars as part of the U.S. President Donald Trump's visit in the Kingdom. “This package of defense equipment and services supports the long-term security of Saudi Arabia and the Gulf region in the face of malign Iranian influence and Iranian related threats,” the White House said in an official press release.
     

US President Donald Trump and King Salman bin Abd al-Aziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia signing a massive defense deal on May 20 in Riyadh

(Credit: White House) 
     
"Additionally, this deal bolsters the Kingdom's ability to provide for its own security and continue contributing to counterterrorism operations across the region, reducing the burden on U.S. military forces," the White House added.

Among others contracts, Saudi Arabia has expressed its intent to procure more than $28 billion worth of Lockheed Martin integrated air and missile defense, combat ship, tactical aircraft and rotary wing technologies and programs.

"At Lockheed Martin, we are proud to be part of this historic announcement that will strengthen the relationship between the United States and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia," said Lockheed Martin Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer Marillyn Hewson.

"We are especially proud of how our broad portfolio of advanced global security products and technologies will enhance national security in Saudi Arabia, strengthen the cause of peace in the region, and provide the foundation for job creation and economic prosperity in the U.S. and in the Kingdom. These agreements will directly contribute to His Majesty's Vision 2030 by opening the door for thousands of highly skilled jobs in new economic sectors."

According to Al Arabiya local news, U.S. defense contractor Raytheon has announced partnership with Saudi military industries to create an Arab operation. The agreement will enable continued global growth for Raytheon in key market areas such as Air Defense Systems, Smart Munitions, C4I Systems and Cyber Security of Defense Systems and Platforms. This partnership will also contribute directly to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's localized defense ecosystem with regional expert capabilities, and will provide a long-term foundation for Saudi Arabia's economic development.

"This strategic partnership is the next step in our over 50-year relationship in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and a strong indicator of our continued global growth," said Thomas A. Kennedy, Raytheon Chairman and CEO. "By working together, we can help build world-class defense and cyber capabilities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia."