The Philippines has decided to additionally procure the domestically produced multi-purpose fighter FA-50.
On the 4th, according to the defense industry, Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) signed a contract with the Ministry of National Defense of the Philippines on the 3rd to supply 12 FA-50s by 2030. The contract amount is $700 million (approximately 1 trillion won), and it includes not only the aircraft but also follow-up logistical support.
Previously, the Philippines introduced 12 FA-50s in March 2014 and has utilized them as the main combat aircraft of its military. It is reported that the decision to procure more after 11 years is based on the trust built between the two countries as the local air force has operated the FA-50.
KAI has continued logistical support since the export to the Philippines in 2014. In December of last year, it also signed a performance-based logistics support contract for the exported aircraft. This contract focuses on long-term maintenance support and parts supply, which has reportedly improved aircraft operational rates.
The FA-50s being exported under this contract have improved performance compared to existing models. KAI explained that the addition of aerial refueling capabilities has increased the range over previous models, and the armament, including air-to-ground and air-to-air missiles, has also been enhanced, improving strike capabilities.
A KAI official noted, 'This is an achievement made as a united team with the Defense Acquisition Program Administration, the air force, and corporations.'
With this export, KAI aims to expand its market share in Southeast Asia. The FA-50 has been exported to six countries, including the Philippines, Indonesia, and Thailand, with over 140 units sold, including 18 units to Malaysia in 2023. The FA-50 is a model modified from the T-50, a high-performance training aircraft co-developed by KAI and Lockheed Martin.
KAI CEO Kang Gu-young stated, 'We will continue to expand KAI's presence in the global defense market through customer-tailored performance enhancements and follow-up support.'