US Intel Warns F-35 Sale to Saudi Arabia Risks Tech Leak to China

American intelligence has cautioned against approving a proposed sale of 48 F-35 stealth fighters to Saudi Arabia, citing concerns that China—which has deep ties to the kingdom and assists its missile program—could gain access to sensitive technologies. The deal is under review, with the warning potentially delaying or blocking approval. This marks a notable friction point in US-Saudi relations and highlights the strategic tension between arms sales and countering Chinese influence.