The US' announcement to sell an arms package to Saudi Arabia, comes at a time when tensions are rising between the US and Iran. There's much speculation the US is strengthening its ally to counter Iran's increased influence in the region.

The deal also includes upgrading the Saudi air force's existing 70 F-15s, and providing training, maintenance and other support.

It's more than new planes. The deal also includes upgrading the Saudi air force's existing 70 F-15s, and providing training, maintenance and other support.

This deal is part of a larger long-term deal. The US announced in October it plans to sell a 60 billion dollars worth of weapons to Saudi Arabia in the next 15-20 years.

Some US media say this move is sending a very clear message to Iran, a view backed by analysts.

Anthony Cordesman, Security Analysit, Center for Strategic and Int'l Studies, said, "The arms sale is part of a long term strategy."

The US says the arms deal does not target Iran, but hints that Iran is a consideration.

Andrew Shapiro, US Assistant Secretary of State, said, "The Middle East is facing a series of threats."

US media reports that after the withdrawal of US forces from Iraq, Iranian influence in the Gulf region is bound to increase. The US now seeks to contain Iran by boosting the strength of its neighbors. Military analyst say that the F-15s will greatly enhance the capability of the Saudi Air force, giving the Saudis more leverage in the military race against their long-standing rival.