The Philippines has reportedly entered into a $700 million agreement with Korea Aerospace Industries to acquire 12 FA-50 fighter jets, boosting its air force amid rising regional and internal security needs.
These jets are an upgrade over earlier models, featuring aerial refueling capability, AESA radar, and next-gen weapon systems. The aircraft will be delivered by 2030, according to KAI. The Philippine government has not officially commented on the contract yet.
This new order comes as the Philippine military continues to recover from the loss of an FA-50 during a March 4 mission targeting communist rebels in Mindanao. The crash drew attention to the operational limits of the current fleet and the need for new technology.
