🇺🇸🇸🇦🇨🇳⚡️ — U.S. intelligence officials have raised concerns that China could gain access to sensitive F-35 technology if the Trump administration completes its planned $24 billion sale of 48 F-35 fighter jets and a spare engine to Saudi Arabia, NYT reports.

A recent Defense Intelligence Agency assessment highlights China’s access to Saudi military facilities, its defense relationship with Riyadh, and the widespread use of Chinese telecommunications technology.

Analysts have questioned whether the U.S. and Saudi Arabia could adequately secure F-35 facilities and prevent Chinese military or intelligence personnel from accessing sensitive technology, particularly the aircraft’s advanced radar and surveillance systems.

Similar security concerns previously emerged over a proposed F-35 sale to the UAE, particularly as Abu Dhabi strengthened military, intelligence, and technology ties with China. That sale ultimately did not proceed.