Manila: The proposed multi-role fighters (MRF) to be acquired for the Philippine Air Force (PAF) must have greater capabilities than existing aircraft in its present fleet, its spokesperson said during a press briefing. "Right now, what we are looking at for MRF is definitely better capabilities than what we currently have in our inventory right now. So we're looking at longer range, better firepower, among others," PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo stated.
According to Philippines News Agency, the decision on whether the PAF will opt for the "Generation 4.0 and Generation 4.5" MRF currently available in the market hinges on the budget. Castillo noted, "Definitely the best we can have for the budget that is available." Generation 4.0 MRFs are known for their use of fly-by-wire control systems and digital processing, while Generation 4.5 MRFs feature integrated avionics suites and advanced weapons for reduced detectability.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program has initially allocated PHP61 billion for the MRF project. The PAF is currently operating 11 South Korean-made FA-50PH units for fighter and strike missions, with one unit having been lost in a crash last March.
In addition to acquiring new MRFs, the PAF is also focusing on training more pilots for the newer and more advanced FA-50 units from Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI). A contract worth USD700 million was signed for the delivery of 12 brand-new FA-50 jets from 2026 to 2030. Castillo highlighted ongoing efforts to prepare pilots for these acquisitions, ensuring adequate pilot availability for the new FA-50s.
The contract for the new FA-50s includes a training program for pilots due to the advanced systems installed in these aircraft. Castillo also mentioned potential plans to upgrade the existing FA-50PH fleet to align with the capabilities of the newer models.
The FA-50PHs, capable of reaching speeds up to Mach 1.5, remain the most capable aircraft in the PAF inventory, equipped with a 20mm cannon, air-to-air missiles, and a variety of bombs and airdrop munitions.
