Philippines Plans to Acquire 12 Additional FA-50 Block 20 Fighter Jets for Its Air Force
This proposed acquisition is part of the Philippine Armed Forces' Re-Horizon 3 Defense Modernization Program, reflecting the country’s continued commitment to strengthening its defense capabilities.
(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) – The Philippine Department of National Defense is reportedly planning to procure an additional 12 FA-50 light combat aircraft from Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) to establish a second squadron of these fighter jets within the country’s air force.
Currently, the Philippine Air Force (PAF) operates 12 FA-50 fighter jets of the Block 10 variant.
The latest procurement aims to acquire 12 FA-50 Block 20 units, the same advanced variant purchased by Poland and Malaysia.
The Block 20 variant is recognized as the most capable and advanced version of the FA-50, featuring significant upgrades over previous models.
This proposed acquisition is part of the Philippine Armed Forces’ Re-Horizon 3 Defense Modernization Program, reflecting the country’s continued commitment to strengthening its defense capabilities.
Philippines Air Force FA-50
The Philippine Department of National Defense anticipates that the contract for the procurement of the 12 FA-50 Block 20 aircraft will be finalized by mid-2025.
The Philippines first received the FA-50PH Block 10 light combat aircraft from South Korea in 2015.
The purchase agreement, valued at USD 421 million (approximately PHP 1.9 billion), was signed between the Philippines and Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) in March 2014, with the first aircraft delivered in November 2015.
All 12 aircraft were fully delivered by 2017.
The procurement package included the aircraft, pilot and maintenance crew training, and basic logistical support.
However, the contract did not cover advanced missiles or high-tech weaponry, which needed to be purchased separately.
The acquisition of the FA-50PH was part of the Philippines’ strategic initiative to restore its air combat capability after more than a decade without fighter jets.
Four FA-50 fighter jets escorted the aircraft carrying the Philippines President upon returning from New York.
The FA-50PH fulfills several critical strategic and tactical roles within the Philippine Air Force (PAF), enhancing the country’s overall defense capabilities.
The FA-50PH plays a pivotal role in executing air strikes against ground targets, including precision bombing and targeted attacks on high-value objectives.
Its combat effectiveness was prominently demonstrated during the 2017 Battle of Marawi, where it was instrumental in neutralizing pro-ISIS militant groups in southern Philippines.
The aircraft is also actively deployed for aerial patrols over maritime territories and national airspace.
It serves as a key asset in strengthening security measures and protecting the Philippines’ air sovereignty.
Designed as a light combat aircraft, the FA-50PH effectively counters low-intensity armed threats and supports counterinsurgency operations.
Its versatility aligns with the Philippine military’s operational requirements for managing internal security challenges.
Two US F-22 Raptor and Philippines Air Force (PAF) FA-50PH during Cope Thunder air exercise in July.
The FA-50PH also functions as a sophisticated training platform for fighter pilots, providing essential preparation for operating advanced combat aircraft in future missions.
The aircraft remains on constant standby for rapid deployment in response to airspace violations and emergency scenarios.
This critical role bridges the capability gap left by the retirement of the F-5A/B Freedom Fighter jets, ensuring swift defensive action when required.
Technical Specifications of the FA-50 Block 10
General
Manufacturer: Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI)
Type: Light Combat and Trainer Aircraft
Design Basis: Derived from the T-50 Golden Eagle
Dimensions
Length: 13.14 meters
Wingspan: 9.45 meters
Height: 4.85 meters
Wing Area: 23.69 square meters
Performance
Engine: 1 × General Electric F404-GE-102 turbofan with afterburner
Air-to-Ground Missiles: AGM-65 Maverick (subject to configuration)
Guided Bombs: JDAM (Joint Direct Attack Munition), GBU-series smart bombs
Unguided Rockets: 70mm rocket pods
FA-50
Avionics and Electronic Systems
Radar: EL/M-2032 Pulse-Doppler Radar (manufactured by Elta Systems, Israel)
Targeting System: Precision targeting pod (configuration dependent)
Electronic Warfare: Radar Warning Receiver (RWR) and flare/chaff dispensers for self-defense
Cockpit:
Full glass cockpit design
Multi-Function Displays (MFD)
Helmet Mounted Display (HMD) (optional)
Flight Control: Fly-by-wire system
Crew
Capacity: 2 (Pilot and Instructor in tandem) or 1 (mission dependent)
Additional Features
Aerial Refueling Capability: Not available on Block 10 variant
Electronic Warfare Systems: Limited compared to the Block 20 variant
Overall, the FA-50 Block 10 is designed as a versatile light attack and advanced trainer platform, offering multi-role operational flexibility at a lower operating cost compared to heavier combat aircraft.