The Philippine Air Force (PAF) is seeking to acquire new multi-role fighters (MRFs) with capabilities surpassing those of its current fleet, a spokesperson confirmed Tuesday.
“Right now, what we are looking at for MRF is definitely better capabilities than what we currently have in our inventory. So we’re looking at longer range, better firepower, among others,” said PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo during a press briefing at Camp Aguinaldo.
When asked if the PAF is eyeing Generation 4.0 or 4.5 fighter jets, Castillo said it would depend on the available budget. “Definitely the best we can have for the budget that is available,” she added.
Generation 4.0 jets introduced fly-by-wire systems and digital processing for better performance. Generation 4.5 fighters, meanwhile, offer advanced avionics and stealth capabilities to evade detection more effectively.
Currently, the PAF operates 11 FA-50PH fighter jets acquired from Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) between 2015 and 2017. These jets are used for both fighter and strike missions. One unit tragically crashed in Bukidnon on March 4 during a night mission, resulting in the deaths of both pilots.
As part of modernization efforts, the Department of National Defense (DND) recently signed a $700-million contract with KAI for 12 brand-new FA-50 jets, to be delivered between 2026 and 2030. Castillo confirmed that pilot training is already underway to prepare for the arrival of the new aircraft.
“The procurement of new pilots is ongoing. The upgrades of our current pilots are also ongoing,” she said. The training package for the new FA-50s also includes familiarization with their enhanced systems.
Castillo added that the Air Force is considering upgrades to the existing FA-50PH fleet to match the newer models, although specifics are still being evaluated. “If time comes that we need to upgrade them, we’re going to plan for this,” she said.
