Arguing About Arabia's AWACS

Reagan faces a tough test of his credibility abroad

It is not only budget cuts: Ronald Reagan has got himself into a two-front war with Congress. Last week there were signs of hardening opposition on the Hill to the Administration's proposed $8.5 billion sale to Saudi Arabia of advanced military equipment, including five E-3A Sentries—computer-laden surveillance aircraft that carry Airborne Warning and Control Systems (AWACS). Minority Leader Robert Michel told the President flatly that the deal is certain to be rejected by the House. Led by Republican Bob Packwood of Oregon and Democrat Henry Jackson of Washington, 50 Senators signed up as...