PAF: Add'l FA-50 fighter jets a big boost to PH air defense

MANILA - The Philippine Air Force (PAF) welcomed South Korea's pledge to deliver by 2028 the first batch of the 12 FA-50 Block 70 light combat aircraft it has acquired from Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI).

"The PAF welcomes any development that will significantly expedite the enhancement of our air defense capabilities, as we also appreciate commitments such as this from our regional partners that highlight our strong security cooperation," PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo said in a message to reporters late Thursday.

South Korean Ambassador to Manila Lee Sang-hwa, in a luncheon meeting with the press on Tuesday, said Seoul targets to deliver three out of the 12 FA-50 aircraft to the Philippines before the end of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s term.

Castillo also said the additional FA-50s, once they arrive, would substantially strengthen the country's air defense capabilities and support its mission of safeguarding Philippine sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The Philippines last month signed the USD700 million contract to acquire the 12 FA-50 Block 70 light combat aircraft from KAI, as it seeks to enhance its air defense capabilities.

The comprehensive package includes mission equipment, integrated logistics support, and a training and logistics information system.

The South Korea-made combat jets represent the latest evolution of the FA-50 platform, featuring advanced avionics, modern radar systems, and extended operational range.

Its delivery will be carried out in phases over the next five years, with full completion targeted by 2030. (PNA)

(2025/07/28-16:53)

Philippine News Agency: info@pna.gov.ph, pna.subscription2020@yahoo.com