[ETCM]

primarily focused on air and missile defense

We are helping them shore up their air defense around critical petroleum infrastructure. We are not sending infantry and artillery. This is about protecting global oil markets, and thus avoiding war.

[Charles Martel]

Yes, this is probably part of the air defense equipment purchase that the Saudis made early this year with Raytheon and Lockheed - the delivery timetable may have been sped up due to the attacks. That sort of equipment is usually deployed with U.S. military personnel to supervise its installation and initial operation - the Saudis will take over when they're up to speed.

I'm a bit surprised that the Saudis are this far behind the curve in buying cutting-edge hardware to protect those facilities. The threat has been obvious for years.

[sockmonkey]

Saudi Barbaria, who last time I checked had executed via crucifixion or beheading 134 people so far this year. IIRC, three were arrested when they were children. Nine year old blasphemers beware.

[Fresh Wind]

Ahhh, OK, we’re just sending advisors.

Where have I heard that before?

[KDF48]

What does God see our country doing?

[bgill]

Ooooh, global oil markets. Oooh, critical petroleum infrastructures. Sorry, if it’s a global problem why are we always the ones called upon? Saudi’s petroleum infrastructures are not even remotely close to critical to any country. They produce 5% of the world’s oil. Right now, after the bombings, they’re still able to produce half that. They are a minor player in today’s market.