Defense

US State Department approves potential sale of F-16 Block 70 fighters to the Philippines

Potential acquisition aims to significantly enhance Philippine Air Force capabilities and support self-reliant defense goals

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Lockheed Martin F-16 Block 70 fighter jet. (Photo: Lockheed Martin)

The Philippines’ air power modernization efforts received a significant boost following the US State Department’s recent approval of a potential sale of F-16 Block 70 aircraft. The proposed deal involves 20 units of the advanced fighter jet, marking a major step towards enhancing the nation’s defense capabilities.

Lockheed Martin describes the F-16 Block 70 as a highly advanced platform suited for both air-to-air defense and air-to-ground support missions. Key features highlighted include advanced mission systems and the life-saving Automatic Ground Collision Avoidance System (Auto GCAS).

The F-16 boasts a proven global track record, with over 3,100 aircraft currently operational in 28 countries. Its capabilities were recently demonstrated during the Cope Thunder exercise at Clark Air Base, Pampanga, showcasing interoperability with the Philippine Air Force (PAF).

“Lockheed Martin is proud to support the Philippines’ efforts to modernize its air power capabilities with the F-16 Block 70,” stated Aimee Burnett, vice president of F-16 Business Development at Lockheed Martin. She added that the aircraft would “deliver advanced capabilities and performance to address the Philippines’ defense requirements” and support the country’s Self-Reliant Defense Posture.

According to Lockheed Martin, the F-16 platform offers potential integration benefits with the PAF’s existing FA-50 fleet through commonality in support equipment. This could enhance affordability and pilot readiness. The manufacturer also noted that the aircraft can be maintained and supported within the Philippines, aligning with the goal of self-reliance.

Lockheed Martin also underscored its existing relationship supporting the Philippines’ Black Hawk and C-130 fleets. Burnett suggested the F-16 offer could extend to industrial cooperation, potentially including workforce development programs and local maintenance capabilities, based on ongoing discussions with Philippine stakeholders.

Written by
Dirk Andrei Salcedo

Dirk is the founder and editor-in-chief of Aviation Updates Philippines (AUP), a platform dedicated to providing the latest news and insights on the aviation industry in the Philippines. With a strong passion for aviation and a background in computer engineering, he manages all aspects of AUP, from website development to content curation.

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