Particle.news

Download on the App Store

KAI Signs $700 Million Contract to Deliver 12 FA-50 Jets to Philippines

Featuring aerial refueling alongside an active electronically scanned array radar, the jets will expand the Philippine Air Force’s operational reach.

Image
This April 17, 2025, file photo, provided by the Air Force, shows an FA-50 fighter landing at an air base in the southwestern city of Gwangju. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)
Image
Image

Overview

  • The deal secures delivery of 12 FA-50PH jets to the Department of National Defense of the Philippines by 2030.
  • Upgrades on the new jets include aerial refueling capability, an active electronically scanned array radar, and both air-to-air and air-to-ground armaments.
  • These additional aircraft build on a 2017 batch that became the Philippines’ primary combat air assets and supported operations during the Battle of Marawi.
  • Malaysia’s 2023 purchase of 18 FA-50s has driven further inquiries from buyers in Europe, the Middle East and South America.
  • KAI is also expanding its export portfolio with the Surion utility helicopter, the Light Armed Helicopter and the next-generation KF-21 fighter.