Middle East Arms Race: Saudi Arabia Eyes F-35 While Su-57 Lands in Dubai

Dubai: The Dubai Airshow has set the stage for a high-stakes competition between the world’s most advanced stealth fighter jets – America’s F-35 and Russia’s Su-57E. Both aircraft showcased their capabilities in front of global defense observers, highlighting the growing race among Middle Eastern nations to acquire cutting-edge military technology.

F-35: America’s Proven Stealth Fighter

The F-35, manufactured by Lockheed Martin, is a single-engine, fifth-generation fighter equipped with advanced sensors, network-centric warfare capabilities, and true stealth technology. Already operational in 18 countries, it has proven combat experience.

Recently, former U.S. President Donald Trump approved the sale of F-35 jets to Saudi Arabia, although the delivery process may take several years due to U.S. congressional approvals and defense protocols. Currently, Israel is the only Middle Eastern country operating the F-35.

Su-57E: Russia’s Flexible Option

The Russian Su-57E made its Dubai debut with a unique selling proposition: it can be offered with local production and technology transfer. Russia has formally extended this proposal to India as well, but it is especially appealing for emerging manufacturing hubs like the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

The Su-57E is a twin-engine fighter designed for higher payload capacity and super-maneuverability. However, details about its stealth, avionics, and operational performance remain limited, making its full capabilities harder to assess.

Cost comparison:

• F-35: Approximately $100 million per jet, plus maintenance and missile costs, with strict U.S. conditions attached.
• Su-57E: Potentially cheaper and politically flexible, though combat-tested data is limited.

Iran in the Picture

Leaked reports suggest Iran is negotiating to purchase Su-57 and Su-35 jets from Russia. Documents released by hacker group Black Mirror indicate that Iran is discussing acquiring Su-57 jets for $37 million each. Alongside Algeria, Iran appears to be one of Russia’s potential customers, raising questions about which Middle Eastern nation will ultimately bet on which fighter jet.

Strategic Implications

Choosing the F-35 offers Middle Eastern nations the advantage of American security guarantees, interoperability, and advanced technology, but comes with high costs and strategic dependency. On the other hand, the Su-57E provides a cost-effective, flexible, and politically less constrained alternative, though with less operational transparency.

The Dubai Airshow has clearly intensified the arms race in the Gulf, with the spotlight on Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Iran as key players in this high-stakes defense competition.