US Intelligence Warns of China Espionage Risk in Potential Saudi F-35 Sale, Report Says

US intelligence assessments have flagged concerns that a potential sale of F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia could create risks of Chinese espionage, according to a report by Anadolu Agency citing The New York Times.

The report said analysts warned that Beijing could gain access to sensitive American fighter jet technology either through espionage efforts or through Saudi Arabia's existing military cooperation with China.

According to the report, the concerns center on the possibility that technology or intelligence related to the advanced F-35 aircraft could be exposed to Chinese intelligence services as a result of Saudi Arabia's broader defense and security relationships, which include ties with Beijing.

The New York Times report, as cited by Anadolu Agency, did not specify the current status of any F-35 sale negotiations between the United States and Saudi Arabia, nor did it detail the specific mechanisms by which such espionage risks might materialize.

Neither the US government nor Saudi authorities were quoted directly in the Anadolu Agency report regarding the intelligence warning.

The F-35, manufactured by Lockheed Martin, is considered one of the most advanced fighter jets in the US military arsenal and has been the subject of strict export controls due to its sensitive technology.