Jerusalem is not thrilled with a huge arms deal materializing between the US and Saudi Arabia. As part of the $60 billion 10-year package, the Saudis will reportedly be receiving 70 UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters, 60 Longbow Apache attack helicopters, 84 Boeing F-15s and upgrades for older combat planes, as well as flight simulators, spare parts and long-term support for the planes. In addition, Kuwait wants the latest Patriot missile defense system, and Oman might be buying 18 F-16 fighter jets.
From an Israeli perspective, the deals are highly problematic. Washington’s intention is to build up the Gulf states’ confidence in the face of an increasingly belligerent Iran. But these fighter planes can just as soon be used against the Jewish state as against the Islamic Republic. The present Saudi regime seems stable. But what would happen in the event of a coup d’etat or if a rogue pilot went wild?"
