US intelligence warns of risk of F-35 technology leaking to China — AeroTime
US intelligence agencies have warned that the proposed $24 billion sale of F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia could create a risk of China gaining access to sensitive US military technologies. This was reported by AeroTime, citing The New York Times and unnamed US officials.
Concerns over technology protection
According to the publication, US internal assessments concern the possible access of Chinese military personnel to Saudi bases, as well as the use in the kingdom of telecommunications equipment from Chinese companies Huawei and ZTE.
A detailed report by the US Defense Intelligence Agency, prepared several months ago, questions whether US and Saudi specialists will be able to adequately protect the aircraft's technologies. The Pentagon is particularly concerned about the security of the F-35's advanced radar and surveillance systems.
The assessment proposes limiting access to locations where F-35 technologies will be housed to Saudi and US officers and contractors only. The document also raises the question of whether Riyadh would agree to broader restrictions on contacts with Chinese military personnel, intelligence officers, and affiliated entities.
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Package submitted for informal review
In June 2026, the US State Department submitted a proposed package of 48 fighter jets and one spare engine to two congressional committees for informal review. President Donald Trump expressed support for the sale in November 2025, ahead of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's visit to the White House.
The intelligence report also raises the issue of potentially removing Huawei and ZTE equipment from Saudi Arabia's telecommunications networks, router infrastructure, and defense facilities. US intelligence had previously expressed general reservations about a potential F-35 sale to the kingdom in the autumn of 2025, while the new document outlines more specific technical risks.
Riyadh's ties with Beijing
Saudi Arabia has long purchased US military aircraft and equipment while also developing defense ties with Beijing. According to The New York Times, China supplies the kingdom with ballistic missiles, helps develop missile production, and improves missile operations.
The proposal also raises questions about preserving Israel's military advantage in the region. Israeli officials have expressed concern about the potential sale. The State Department, the Pentagon, and the Saudi Embassy declined to comment, while the White House and the Chinese Embassy did not respond to journalists' requests.
