The F-35 Lightning II, recognized as the world’s most advanced fighter jet, has been ordered by numerous countries capable of operating a fifth-generation combat wing. With over 1,100 units delivered, the F-35 surpasses all other fifth-generation fighter jets combined. The United States has previously restricted sales to certain nations, but with the second Trump administration in office, there is speculation about potential changes in policy.
The Biden administration took a cautious approach regarding F-35 sales, focusing on protecting the technology and being selective about buyers. In contrast, the previous Trump administration viewed it more as a commodity for negotiation. It was reportedly used as an incentive for countries to normalize relations with Israel.
In the Middle East and North Africa region, Turkey, Morocco, Egypt, the UAE, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia have shown interest in purchasing the F-35 but faced rejections from the US. Past agreements included up to 100 F-35As for Turkey and 50 for the UAE. These deals were canceled primarily to maintain Israel’s technological edge and protect sensitive technologies from adversaries like China and Russia.
Aviation Week’s Brandon Patrick noted that Morocco might be the first Arab country to receive F-35s under Trump’s second term. Morocco has historically maintained good relations with the US and is considered Western-aligned despite regional tensions with Algeria.
Military Africa reported that “Morocco is advancing in its plans to acquire Lockheed Martin’s fifth-generation F-35 Lighting II stealth fighter jets.” Aviation Week mentioned that after normalizing relations with Israel in 2020, Morocco sought assistance from Israeli officials to acquire these jets.
Turkey’s case remains unique due to its initial involvement in developing the F-35 program before opting for Russia’s S-400 air defense system. This decision led to its exclusion from receiving further jets despite previous commitments.
For both Egypt and UAE, previous agreements fell through due to various geopolitical factors including their interactions with Chinese military technology. The CAATSA Act also complicates matters by sanctioning countries purchasing Russian military equipment.
Saudi Arabia expresses interest in acquiring F-35s but faces obstacles similar to those of other Gulf states. Qatar requested these jets but was declined due to strained regional relationships despite being a key US ally.
While Tunisia, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman have favorable ties with Washington, only Bahrain and Oman might consider future orders given their current aircraft capabilities.
The prospect of selling hundreds of F-35s remains contingent on shifts in US policy under Trump’s leadership regarding arms sales within this geopolitically sensitive region.
