PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA IS to propose a record arms deal to Congress in the next fortnight, which would earn the US $60bn.

If the deal goes ahead, Saudi Arabia would receive 84 F-15 jets and dozens of helicopters. Saudi Arabia is one of the US’s strongest allies in the Middle East.

According to the Wall Street Journal, the deal supports at least 75,000 jobs and could be spread out over five to 10 years. Further talks between the US and Saudi Arabia over potential naval and missile defence upgrades could earn the US billions more.

Once notification of the deal has been passed on to Congress, legislators could appeal for conditions to be attached to the deal, but the prospect of job support could help build support for an agreement to be signed.

Three years ago, Iran criticised the deal when it appeared to be taking shape, saying the region required stability and security rather than more weapons. Al Jazeera reports that the Saudi deal is part of Obama’s policy plan to support Arab allies against Iran.