Washington — U.S. President Donald Trump has approved a landmark defense agreement with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, marking a significant expansion in military cooperation between the two nations, the White House announced Tuesday evening.

During a formal dinner at the White House honoring Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, President Trump revealed that Saudi Arabia would be formally designated as a major non-NATO ally, a move that unlocks broader access to advanced U.S. military technology and strategic coordination.

The agreement includes the sale of F-35 fighter jets and 300 American-made tanks, along with additional deals covering civil nuclear cooperation, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals. These arrangements are part of a broader economic and defense partnership aimed at reinforcing regional stability and boosting American industry.

“This is a new chapter in our alliance,” Trump said during the event. “We’re taking our military cooperation to even greater heights by formally designating Saudi Arabia as a major non-NATO ally”.

The White House emphasized that the deal builds on previous commitments made during Trump’s visit to Riyadh, where Saudi Arabia pledged over $600 billion in investment across various sectors.

While the announcement drew praise from some defense industry leaders, it also reignited debate over Saudi Arabia’s human rights record and its involvement in regional conflicts. Critics have called for greater scrutiny of arms transfers to the kingdom, especially in light of past controversies.

The Pentagon is expected to begin logistical coordination for the delivery of equipment in the coming months, pending congressional review.