US President Donald Trump says the United States will designate Saudi Arabia as a major non-NATO ally.
He announced the decision during a black-tie dinner at the White House with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
Trump’s announcement underscores a push by the United States to deepen and formalize its military partnership with the kingdom. He said earlier Tuesday that Saudi Arabia will purchase F-35 fighter jets it’s long coveted.
Trump and the crown prince also finalized “a series of landmark agreements that deepen the U.S.-Saudi strategic partnership, expand opportunities for high-paying American jobs, strengthen critical supply chains, and reinforce regional stability,” according to the White House.
Speaking at the dinner, Crown Prince bin Salman touted his kingdom’s relationship with the US, saying, “is a special moment.”
Major non-NATO ally: Major non-NATO allies are not entitled to specific security guarantees, like NATO members under Article 5, but the designation changes how the US military interacts with the country, according to the State Department.
These allies are eligible to receive material and supply loans, serve as a location for US-owned War Reserve stockpiles and can enter into agreements with the United States on training.
Additionally, private companies from the designated country can bid on contracts to maintain, repair or overhaul US military equipment overseas.
Currently, 19 countries are designated as major non-NATO allies, including Israel, Japan and New Zealand.
