Exclusive: Qatar makes formal request for F-35 jets - sources

FILE PHOTO: An F-35 pilot prepares for take off from the Vermont Air National Guard Base with the flag of the United States, before a flyover in South Burlington, Vermont, U.S. May 22, 2020. Picture taken May 22, 2020. U.S. Air National Guard/Miss Julie M. Shea/Handout via REUTERS

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Qatar has submitted a formal request to the United States to buy stealthy F-35 fighter jets, three people familiar with the deal said, in a deal that if pursued could strain U.S. ties with Saudi Arabia and Israel.

The request for the Lockheed Martin Co jets was submitted by the Persian Gulf state in recent weeks, the people said.