Washington: In one of their biggest arms
deal, the US and Saudi Arabia on Friday inked an agreement worth
USD 29.4 billion for sale of 80 new F-15SA combat jets and
modernisation of another 70, the White House announced amid heightened tension with Iran in the region.
"Valued at USD 29.4 billion, this agreement includes
production of 84 new aircraft and the modernisation of 70
existing aircraft as well as munitions, spare parts, training,
maintenance and logistics," White House Deputy Press
Secretary, Josh Earnest, said in a statement.
The F-15SA aircraft, manufactured by The Boeing
Company, are among the most sophisticated and capable aircraft
in the world.
Earnest said the US and Saudi Arabia have signed a
government-to-government agreement under the Foreign Military
Sales programme to provide advanced F-15SA combat aircraft to
the Royal Saudi Air Force.
"This agreement will positively impact the US
economy and further advances the president's commitment to
create jobs by increasing exports," Earnest said.
According to industry experts, this agreement will
support more than 50,000 American jobs, engaging 600 suppliers
in 44 states, and providing USD 3.5 billion in annual economic
impact to the US economy.
"This agreement reinforces the strong and enduring
relationship between the United States and Saudi Arabia, and
demonstrates the US commitment to a strong Saudi defense
capability as a key component to regional security," Earnest
said.
PTI
First Published: Friday, December 30, 2011, 11:50