The preliminary steps of the “white coup” are proceeding gradually in Saudi Arabia. However, the pace has accelerated in the past few weeks, suggesting that the transfer of power is imminent. Observers cannot but stop and ponder the frequent reshuffling in the position of deputy minister of defense.

Just over a year ago, Khaled Bin Sultan, son of late Crown Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz, occupied the position. However, following the death of his father and his uncle Nayef coming to power as the crown prince in October 2011, a decree was issued on April 20, 2013, to dismiss Khaled and appoint Fahd bin Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Abdul Rahman al-Saud. The appointment lasted only a few months before Fahd was dismissed on Aug. 6, 2013, and replaced by Salman bin Sultan. Yet, Sultan's other son fared no better than his brother as deputy defense minister, as he lasted in the position no longer than nine months. On May 14, 2014, Salman was also removed — “by his own will,” as he insisted. Prince Khaled bin Bandar bin Abdul Aziz was appointed in his place.

Thus, four people filled this position within a span of one year and one month. This is not normal, accidental or coincidental. This is a clear indication of an acceleration in the Saudi Arabian succession. Another major step in this direction came March 27, as Prince Muqrin bin Abdulaziz al-Saud was appointed deputy crown prince, making him the future king in the line of succession after his two brothers, current King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz and his Crown Prince Salman.

The transition to the second generation of sons is being accelerated in two ways: removing the sons of former kings and crown princes, especially the Sudairis, and concentrating the positions of power and influence in the hands of the sons of the current King Abdullah and his closest associates. This is happening gradually and with great care.