Philippines sign for 12 additional FA-50s

A KAI FA-50 taking off carrying a pair of AGM-65 Maverick air-to-ground missiles (photo KAI)

Report by Robin Polderman

Korean media broke the news today that Korean Aerospace Industries (KAI) and the Philippine government signed a deal for 12 additional FA-50 aircraft worth about US$700 million. The contract includes not only the aircraft but also logistical support and training, with delivery of the jets completed by 2030.

The deal comes as tensions with China over disputed territory in the South-Chinese Sea are increasing, and Manila is looking to boost its military.

These aircraft will be of the Block II configuration, featuring an AESA radar, aerial refueling capability and the possibility to use a wide range of air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons.

The Philippine Air Force already operates the KAI FA-50, having taken delivery of the jets in 2017 following an order in 2014. Of these 12, one crashed in March 2025 leaving eleven currently in service.