Lockheed Martin is upbeat on the prospects for the F-16 in Manila’s long-running quest to obtain new fighter aircraft.
“I think that [the Philippines] is looking to leverage the most advanced technology,” says Jess Koloini, director, business development at Lockheed’s integrated fighter group.
“And the US relationship in the Philippines is at a new high point at this time.”
The US company’s campaign to sell the latest version of the venerable single-engined jet received a boost in March, when new US secretary of defense Pete Hegseth made the Southeast Asian capital his first overseas destination.
An updated Foreign Military Sales (FMS) case for 20 F-16C/D Block 70/72 jets followed in short order, up from the 12 listed in a 2021 FMS case.
In addition to the capabilities inherent in the fighter itself, Koloini discloses that conformal fuel tanks (CFTs) are a key part of Lockheed’s offer, with range being a major consideration for the Philippines. The combat air patrol mission is something she says that Manila is “very, very focused on”.
Manila is also interested in other elements of a major fighter deal.
“They’re looking at this as a long-term investment, and not only a capability in terms of a fighter platform, but their relationship with the partner that they buy from,” says Koloini.
Apart from the aircraft itself, Lockheed is also looking at offsets, such as a repair capability at a component level. Lockheed also sees potential for workforce development in the Philippines as the country seeks to improve its aerospace industry.
Manila, which could ultimately obtain up to 36 fighters, has flirted with a choice between the F-16 or Saab Gripen for over a decade. The Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) KF-21 – which is still in development – is also a possible contender.
The Philippine air force lacks a dedicated fighter but does operate 11 KAI FA-50PH light-attack jets – a 12th aircraft was lost in a March crash.
Koloini observes that obtaining the FA-50 before moving to an advanced fighter was a sensible step for Manila, and that the South Korean type is largely based on F-16 technology and engineering.
Although the competition has dragged on for years, Koloini suggests that there may, finally, be a resolution in the offing.
“We’re working through a Foreign Military Sales process, so the exact timeline is ultimately up to the US government,” she says.
“I think this year we’re hoping to see some pretty dramatic movement in this competition.”
