In an effort to further enhance its combat capabilities, the Philippine Air Force is negotiating the purchase of 12 new KAI FA-50PH light fighters from South Korea. This information, revealed in an Acquisition Monitoring Report published earlier this month by the Department of National Defense (DND), details that both countries are finalizing the terms of the agreement, aiming to sign a new contract within this year.
According to the disclosed information, the Philippine Air Force would acquire 12 units for an approximate value of USD 683.7 million, effectively doubling its current fleet of 12 FA-50 light fighters. The original contract for these units was signed in the early 2010s for a value of USD 323 million, with deliveries taking place between 2015 and 2017. It has been noted that some of these combat aircraft have been actively involved in major counterterrorism operations, as well as in international exercises, particularly last year alongside the U.S. Air Force’s F-22 Raptors.
It is worth mentioning that back in 2022, the Philippines hinted at the possibility of acquiring additional units of the South Korean light fighter as one of the options to expand its combat fleet. However, there were no significant public statements supporting this operation since then. During that time, the Philippine Air Force also faced issues with aircraft availability due to logistical support challenges, leaving only three operational units.
Finally, among other projects mentioned in the report, a modernization program for the current FA-50PH fleet in service with the Philippine Air Force is highlighted. On the naval front, the report emphasizes the upcoming incorporation of the new Miguel Malvar-class corvettes built by Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI). Local media have indicated that the South Korean company is close to delivering the first ship in March, with the possibility of also launching the second vessel. These new naval units have been designated as “BRP Miguel Malvar (FFG-06)” and “BRP Diego Silang (FFG-07).
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