(REUTERS) - The Pentagon said on Friday it was planning to send a large number of additional forces and equipment to Saudi Arabia, including air defences and fighter aircraft.
In a statement, Pentagon spokesman Jonathan Hoffman said US Defence Secretary Esper authorised the deployment of additional forces, including two fighter squadrons, two Patriot batteries, and a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense System (THAAD).
“Secretary Esper informed Saudi Crown Prince and Minister of Defence Mohammed bin Salman this morning of the additional troop deployment to assure and enhance the defence of Saudi Arabia,” the statement said.