For decades, the US has been a key ally in strengthening the military power of Gulf countries. This week, it approved $1.4 billion in arms sales to Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. The deals now head to Congress for review. Bahrain will get $445 million to support its F-16 fighter jets. This package includes aircraft parts, missile containers, radar components, guidance system spares, ground support gear, and lab equipment. These upgrades help Bahrain maintain its jets, which it first received in 1990. General Electric Aerospace and Lockheed Martin Aeronautics are expected to be the main contractors. Saudi Arabia asked for two packages, each worth $500 million. One focuses on keeping its helicopter fleet in top shape. Covered helicopters include Black Hawks, Apaches, Chinooks, Schweizer 333s, and Aerial Scouts. The deal also includes full logistics support for the Royal Saudi Land Forces Aviation Corps. The second Saudi package is for aviation training. It allows the US Army to train Saudi helicopter crews, ensuring readiness without sending more US staff to the region. The Defence Security Cooperation Agency said these sales will not change the regional power balance. If Congress does not block them within 30 days, the deals will proceed. These sales come soon after Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman met US President Donald Trump. Trump has proposed selling Saudi Arabia F-35 jets, potentially making the Kingdom the first Arab user of the aircraft. Congress may block sales over concerns of advanced technology security or human rights issues, including the 2018 killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, linked to Saudi leaders by US intelligence. Overall, these deals show the strong US partnership with Gulf allies. They aim to modernize Bahrain’s air force and maintain Saudi helicopter strength, supporting regional stability while balancing political concerns.