The United States and Saudi Arabia signed a landmark $142 billion arms deal on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, as part of a broader $600 billion strategic economic partnership. The agreement, finalized during President Donald Trump’s visit to Riyadh, includes advanced weaponry, air and missile defense systems, naval security, and military modernization programs, according to a White House fact sheet. The deal, described as one of the largest defense sales agreements in history, involves over a dozen U.S. defense firms and extensive training for Saudi forces.
The partnership also encompasses investments in energy, artificial intelligence, and infrastructure, with a notable $20 billion pledge from Saudi’s DataVolt for AI data centers in the U.S. The White House projects that the $600 billion commitment will create thousands of American jobs and bolster industries like aerospace and technology. Saudi Arabia aims to strengthen its defense capabilities amid regional tensions, particularly with Iran, while the U.S. seeks to cement economic ties with Gulf allies.
Analysts project the deal will enhance Saudi Arabia’s military readiness and deepen U.S. influence in the region, though it may face congressional scrutiny due to past concerns over Saudi human rights issues. The agreement is expected to stimulate U.S. defense manufacturing, with immediate contracts for firms like Boeing and Lockheed Martin.
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