U.S. intelligence officials have raised serious concerns in internal reports about the potential for China to acquire sensitive F-35 fighter jet technology if the United States proceeds with a sale of dozens of the advanced aircraft to Saudi Arabia.

The warnings, detailed in assessments from the Pentagon’s Defense Intelligence Agency and other offices, point to risks of Chinese espionage in Saudi Arabia or exploitation through the kingdom’s growing military and security ties with Beijing. The proposed sale, valued at approximately $24 billion, involves advanced stealth fighters equipped with sophisticated radar and surveillance systems that Pentagon officials consider particularly vulnerable.

A detailed DIA report issued several months ago has circulated among administration agencies and congressional offices. It highlights Chinese military access to Saudi bases and Riyadh’s reliance on Chinese telecommunications infrastructure, including equipment from companies such as Huawei and ZTE. The assessment questions whether secure sites for the F-35 technology can be maintained and whether Saudi officials would agree to restrict contact with Chinese military and intelligence personnel or remove Chinese-supplied equipment from critical networks and defense installations.

These concerns build on earlier intelligence evaluations from the fall of 2025. Officials have emphasized that only Saudi and American personnel and contractors should have access to F-35-related sites, but the reports express doubt about enforcing such measures amid Saudi Arabia’s existing defense cooperation with China, including ballistic missile development.

The intelligence warnings come as discussions continue over the multibillion-dollar arms package. Previous U.S. decisions to withhold F-35 sales from countries like the United Arab Emirates and Turkey were influenced by similar technology transfer fears. Analysts note that China has a documented history of targeting American stealth aircraft programs through cyber espionage and other means.

U.S. officials continue to weigh the strategic value of strengthening ties with Saudi Arabia against these national security risks. The reports stress the need for robust safeguards to prevent any compromise of the F-35’s advanced capabilities.