The Italian firm Leonardo formally presented its proposal to supply 32 Eurofighter Typhoon Tranche 5 fighters to the Philippine Air Force (PAF). The offer seeks to meet the requirement of the multirole combat aircraft (MRCA) program, in which the Typhoon stands out as the first twin-engine fighter in the competition.
The selection process is part of the PAF’s modernization plan, which includes the acquisition of up to 40 fighters in an initial phase, with an estimated investment of 1 billion dollars. The objective is to strengthen the country’s combat capabilities within the framework of its defense strategy amid regional territorial disputes.
In addition to Leonardo’s proposal, other bidders are also competing. Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) has already presented an alternative based on the KF-21 Block I, with the possibility of delivering a first batch of 10 aircraft, although the initial configuration has raised doubts about its air-to-ground capabilities. The South Korean company maintains that these limitations would be resolved with the arrival of Block II around 2028.
Other alternatives under review include Saab’s JAS-39 Gripen, presented as a lower-cost option capable of launching long-range Meteor missiles and offering a high degree of interoperability with Erieye and GlobalEye early warning systems already in use. From the United States, the F-16 Block 70 is being promoted, with logistical advantages derived from the Mutual Defense Treaty and the Visiting Forces Agreement, along with the possibility of financing up to 2.5 billion dollars through the Foreign Military Financing (FMF) program.
The final decision on the future fighter for the Philippine Air Force will rest with the Ministry of Defense, which must evaluate the technical capabilities, available funding, and strategic alignment with its international partners.
*Images for illustrative purposes only
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I hope the selection is not based on the cut by senior PAF officers. It always happen. No matter the era. Philippines needed to prosecute corruptions in the government.
I’m sure China’s fighter planes would be a strong contender if they’re one of the bidders. Their approach to negotiations and the Philippines’ legislators’ experience with deal-making could potentially play a role in the decision-making process, regardless of the subject matter’s importance, even it’s for national security.
Its a good thing we are having those Air defence machines, but do we have a talented and skilled individual who can pilot those to its fullest potential?? Do we even have enough trained pilots? Or are those gonna be just for display or to rot on its 1st parking place?