South Korea plans to deliver the first three of 12 FA-50 Block 70 light combat aircraft to the Philippines by 2028, ahead of the end of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s term, South Korean Ambassador to the Philippines Lee Sang-hwa announced yesterday.
The delivery is part of a USD 700 million agreement signed last month between the Philippine government and Korea Aerospace Industries, Ltd. (KAI), as Manila moves to strengthen its air defense capabilities.
“This additional purchase, the 12 FA-50s, we believe will make a significant improvement also for the air force of the Philippines,” Lee said in a luncheon meeting with the press in Makati City.
“The first batch will be delivered, we hope, before the end of the term of the Marcos administration.”
The comprehensive package includes mission equipment, integrated logistics support, and a training and logistics information system.
The Korea-made combat jet represents 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.
Defense cooperation between South Korea and the Philippines continues to deepen, following the elevation of their relationship to a “strategic partnership” in October 2024.
In addition to the acquisition of 12 new FA-50 Block 70 combat jets, the Philippines recently received the BRP Miguel Malvar (FFG-06), a guided-missile frigate built by South Korea’s Hyundai Heavy Industries.
“As fellow maritime nations, we share an abiding interest in maintaining peace and stability, as well as upholding a rules-based order in the South China Sea and beyond,” he said.
