U.S. officials in Washington, D.C., have confirmed that any F-35 Lightning II aircraft sold to Saudi Arabia under a new strategic defense pact will be less advanced than the versions already flying with Israel. This will allow the company to preserve Israel's legally mandated qualitative military edge within the region, a strategic priority the Department of War has been quick to reinforce.

The proposed sale, which will account for 48 F-35A jets as part of a wider security package, has stirred up controversy within Congress and from Israeli politicians . Israeli officials, despite their commentary, have insisted that their edge will be maintained through superior systems management and future access to cutting-edge US weaponry. Critics warn that the move could reshape the balance of

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