Philippines signs contract for new batch of FA-50PH aircraft

The Philippines government seeks to complete the acquisition of an additional batch of KAI FA-50PH light combat aircraft by June 2030. (KAI)

The Philippines has signed a contract with Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) to acquire an additional batch of 12 FA-50PH light combat aircraft.

The contract, which was announced on 3 June, is worth approximately USD700 million, South Korea's Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) announced on 5 June. The contract includes not just the aircraft but also follow-up military support, KAI added in a statement.

The contract calls for delivery of the 12 aircraft by June 2030, KAI added. The new batch will augment an existing batch of 11 FA-50PH aircraft in service with the Philippines Air Force (PAF).

“The additional 12 FA-50PHs will have significantly improved detection and strike capabilities through increased range via aerial refuelling, active electronically scanned array (AESA), and air-to-ground and air-to-air weapons,” KAI said.

Janes previously reported in January 2025 that the Philippines Department of National Defense (DND) was finalising the terms of reference for the acquisition of the new batch. At the time, the government-to-government deal had an approved budget of USD683 million.

Subsequently, on 17 March DAPA Commissioner Seok Jong-geon met Secretary of National Defense of Philippines Gilberto Teodoro Jr in Manila to discuss ways to enhance defence co-operation, including the FA-50PH, according to DAPA. “Seok expressed the [South Korean] government support for the FA-50, including improving the aircraft's operational rate,” DAPA said.

The signing of the contract was the result of “continuous diplomatic co-operation between” the governments of South Korea and the Philippines, DAPA added.