New Delhi, Sept. 17 -- A confidential US intelligence assessment has raised concerns that China could gain access to sensitive American military technology if Washington proceeds with the proposed sale of F-35 stealth fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, according to a report.

The New York Times reported that the US intelligence officials have warned that China could potentially obtain information about the F-35 through espionage in Saudi Arabia or through Beijing's expanding military and security relationship with Riyadh.

The proposed package, which has advanced further in the US approval process, includes 48 F-35 aircraft and a spare engine, with the deal valued at around $24 billion.

The concern goes beyond whether Chinese personnel could ...