THE Air Force’s 5th Strike Wing yesterday said the acquisition of 12 additional FA-50 fighter jets, worth $700 million (around P39.1 billion), shows the country’s commitment to modernizing the Armed Forces.
On Facebook, the 5th Strike Wing said procurement of the aircraft from the Korea Aircraft Industries (KAI) would further enhance the capabilities of the Philippine Air Force.
“This $700 million agreement includes not only the aircraft but also comprehensive logistics support,” said the unit to which the soon-to-be delivered FA-50s will be assigned.
The Department of National Defense signed the contract with KAI last Wednesday for the delivery of 12 FA-50s. It is the most expensive contract entered into by the defense and military establishments under the ongoing AFP modernization program.
A similar agreement was signed by the Armed Forces with KAI in March 2014 for the supply of 12 FA-50s, worth P18.9 billion.
The delivery of the 12 aircraft in the 2014 deal was completed in 2017. However, one of the units crashed last March in Bukidnon. Two pilots died in the incident.
“The new FA-50PH units are expected to feature significant upgrades, such as air-to-air refueling capability, advanced radar systems, and enhanced weapon integration, with deliveries expected to be completed by 2030,” the 5th Fighter Wing said.
The Philippine Air Force (PAF) is using the FA-50s currently in its inventory mainly in the conduct of territorial defense operations. The aircraft are also used to support military operations against internal security threats, including communist rebels and terrorists.
“The FA-50PH has proven its versatility and reliability in various operations, and this expansion underscores the Philippines’ commitment to modernizing its defense forces and strengthening regional security,” the 5th Fighter Wing said, referring to the additional 12 FA-50s.
These aircraft are separate from the more advanced multi-role fighters (MRF) that the defense and military establishments are trying to acquire, also under the AFP modernization program.
Two of the aircraft that are being considered under the MRF acquisition project are the US F-16s and the Saab JAS 39 Gripen fighters from Sweden.
The PAF is also hoping to get six additional A-29 Super Tucano light attack aircraft before the end of the year, Air Force chief Lt. Gen. Arthur Cordura.
During the celebration of the 5th anniversary of the Air Combat Command (ACC) in Zamboanga City last Tuesday, Cordura cited the importance of refinement of tactics, doctrines and procedures which has enabled the ACC to “remain agile and aligned with emerging operational demands.”
“Equally important is the force modernization that continues to shape air combat command’s operational edge,” he said.
“In fact, hopefully before the end of the year we will have the additional six Tucanos to be delivered,” he added.
The defense department gave the go signal for the acquisition of the additional Super Tucanos in December last year.
They will be in addition to the six Super Tucanos, worth nearly P5 billion, acquired from Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer Defense and Security five years ago.
“The impending integration of modern air assets and precision munitions has begun transformation, not just our capability but also our mindset,” Cordura said.
