Philippines Seeks Major Air Power Upgrade, Eyes Advanced Fighter Jets

The Philippines is embarking on a major air power modernization program with the announcement by the Department of National Defense (DND) of its intent to purchase at least 40 new multirole fighter jets.

The country aims to strengthen its ability to patrol its airspace and exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the face of ongoing territorial disputes within the South China Sea.

Funding and Procurement​

The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) will play a crucial role in securing financing for this substantial project. International interest is high, with three key contenders vying for the contract:

• Saab (Sweden): Saab's Gripen offers a proven track record, emphasizing versatility and operational efficiency.
• Lockheed Martin (USA): The F-16 Block V is a battle-tested fighter and its latest iteration boasts advanced capabilities.
• Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (India): India's domestically developed LCA Tejas presents a potentially more budget-friendly option for the Philippines.

The Decision​

The DND's evaluation will center on several factors:

• Capability: Fulfilling the Philippine Air Force's need for jets capable of long-range patrols and effective deterrence.
• Cost: Striking a balance between upfront acquisition costs and ongoing maintenance expenses.
• Interoperability: Ensuring compatibility with existing Philippine defense systems and laying the groundwork for future cooperation.

Regional Implications​

The Philippines' commitment to modernizing its air force sends a strong message within the region. This substantial acquisition highlights the nation's determination to defend its interests and will be closely observed by other regional players.

 

[sanket]

Only Think i like to have in Tejas is GaN based AESA Radar .

 

[shivkumar sinha]

Tejas mark-1A will hardly fit into the requirements of Philipines airforce. Philippines must go for other two options.

 

[Kira]

Tejas mark-1A will hardly fit into the requirements of Philipines airforce. Philippines must go for other two options.

I mean even if it did,HAL won't be able to produce them on time and will struggle to maintain them over the coming years given it's record.
Probably,the most capable and proven option would be the F-16,but it will still cost a pretty penny,then again any modern fighter will today.

 

[Priyan]

I'll be real here, there's no way they actually end up buying the Tejas.

 

[Anant]

The Tejas has the lowest chance here. In fact, the Tejas barely has a chance here.

That said, however, does the Philippines actually have the funding to purchase 40 new multi-role fighters? This would be a deal worth atleast 2 billion dollars, and with the recent and planned modernisation and up-sizing of their Army and Navy, this project may get delayed and/or broken into tranches.

 

[Hari Sud]

As usual aggressive marketing of f-16 or Gripen will win.

 

[GMR]

Even if Tejas is selected, wondering how & where HAL will build them without effecting IAF's schedule.. 🤔

 

[kumar]

Only Think i like to have in Tejas is GaN based AESA Radar .

That will come in Tejas mk2.

 

[Francis BOjeba]

The Philippines acquisition of India manufactured aircraft ( Tejas) is of the capability enhancement for the policing of it's contested islands in the south china sea- major premise.
The Indian airforce is in contested stalemate with China PLA airforce in the Himalayas mountainous regions of their contested border regions!
The PLA airforce is well armed with highly sophisticated technology and fifth + sixth generation stealth technology weaponry to enforce & coarse other nations in seizing control of theirs contested territories!
What I see and could discern now; is that: nations contesting with China, Russia & Iran should get ready and be prepared for conflict of nations- for that world war three is now iminent!

 

[Avada kedavra]

I am laughing seeing that people still think there will be buyers for Tejas.
After failing in Malaysia Egypt and Argentina.

 

[The Presence]

That will come in Tejas mk2.

Some reports suggest that it could come as soon as the 41st Mk-1A.

 

[Glenn Cruz]

The Tejas has the lowest chance here. In fact, the Tejas barely has a chance here.

That said, however, does the Philippines actually have the funding to purchase 40 new multi-role fighters? This would be a deal worth atleast 2 billion dollars, and with the recent and planned modernisation and up-sizing of their Army and Navy, this project may get delayed and/or broken into tranches.

The budget has been release before Pres.Marcos goes in America according to Max Montero.

 

[Huang Li]

I believe that the Tejas MK1A may not be the best fit for the Philippine Air Force. It would be more suitable as a Naval Strike Platform. It would be ideal if the purchase of Tejas could be made alongside other Multi-Role Fighters like Jas 39E and F16V.

I mean not fitted for Philippine Airforce.. but this is good for Phippine Navy Naval Strike Platform.

 

[Gopal Madan]

40 is high number India should try with TOT.

 

[Gopal Madan]

Even if Tejas is selected, wondering how & where HAL will build them without effecting IAF's schedule.. 🤔

Local production with tot.

 

[Puneet]

Tejas might get selected as its value for money. Philippines knows it

 

[das bab]

I believe that the Tejas MK1A may not be the best fit for the Philippine Air Force. It would be more suitable as a Naval Strike Platform. It would be ideal if the purchase of Tejas could be made alongside other Multi-Role Fighters like Jas 39E and F16V.

I mean not fitted for Philippine Airforce.. but this is good for Phippine Navy Naval Strike Platform.

Yes 40 navy tejas mk1A would be a gudfit for a mini carrier along with navy rafale will be icing on cake

 

[Anant]

The budget has been release before Pres.Marcos goes in America according to Max Montero.

That is excellent news. It is always wonderful to see more and more nations stepping up to show China what's what. The role that the Philippines has been playing, especially to the level of activity in the last year or so, is also very appreciable.

 

[Anant]

Tejas might get selected as its value for money. Philippines knows it

In the grand scheme of things, it isn't. If you look at the recent Tejas Mk1A order, we are ordering 97 aircraft for 65,000 crore INR, which works to about 80 million USD per aircraft. That is on par with the F-16s cost (Block 50/52, potentially, if not Block 70/72).