Overview

• In April 2025 the U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency approved a possible $5.58 billion sale of 20 F-16 Block 70/72 jets with weapons and support to the Philippines.
• Lockheed Martin’s enhanced offer includes a strategic collaboration with Southern Methodist University to establish research labs, training facilities and business incubators in the Philippines.
• The F-16 package covers AIM-120 and AIM-9 missiles, small diameter bombs, JDAM and Paveway kits, electronic warfare systems, spare engines and optional conformal fuel tanks to extend range.
• Philippine officials led by Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez continue to cite securing funding as the primary barrier to signing a contract for the sale.
• Industry estimates place Lockheed’s F-16 production backlog at more than 110 jets, indicating any deliveries would likely occur in the late 2020s.