Trump administration clears $24.3 billion F-35 sale to Saudi Arabia despite China concerns

Washington, Sep 18 (UNI) The Trump administration has cleared a potential $24.3 billion sale of 48 F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, despite concerns from US lawmakers and defence officials that the deal could give China access to highly sensitive American military technology. The proposed sale would give Riyadh 48 of the advanced stealth fighters, putting its planned fleet roughly on par with Israel's current 50 F-35s. But the deal still requires congressional review and is likely to face opposition from lawmakers who have long been sceptical of arms sales to Saudi Arabia. Israael has also opposed transferring the aircraft…