By Mandi Rice, St. Louis Public Radio
ST. LOUIS – A planned U.S. arms deal with Saudi Arabia could pump up the St. Louis economy, if Congress approves it.
The $60 billion package could include more than 80 Boeing F-15 fighters, manufactured in St. Louis. Boeing says the sale would support nearly 80,000 jobs nationwide.
Missouri Sen. Kit Bond says the proposal benefits both national and local interests. "I am hopeful that it will not only strengthen Saudi Arabia to defend against Iran but it will provide jobs and good economic growth in the St. Louis region," Bond said.
The White House is expected to officially announce the deal any day now. It will then face a congressional review.