The Philippines’ Department of National Defence (DND) and the Philippine Air Force (PAF) are actively exploring their options for acquiring 40 Multirole Fighters (MRF) as part of their ongoing modernisation efforts. With a budget of around PHP 61.2 billion allocated for the programme’s first phase, the DND is weighing offers from various manufacturers, each with different advantages and limitations.
Among the leading candidates is the South Korean-made KF-21 Block-I, which has garnered significant attention. Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) has formally proposed supplying 10 units for the initial phase of the MRF acquisition. This proposal is within the available budget for Phase 1, offering full air-to-air capabilities. However, the Block-I variant is somewhat limited in terms of air-to-ground functionality, though this is not considered a critical flaw for air defence and interdiction missions.
KAI has assured the PAF that Block-II upgrades, which would enhance the jet by focusing on adding air-to-ground strike capabilities, are expected to be available by 2028. South Korea’s air force is scheduled to receive these upgrades simultaneously, ensuring that the PAF is not left behind in terms of technological advancements.
Despite KAI’s attractive offer, the challenge of financing the full acquisition of 40 jets remains unresolved. DND officials have been discussing a phased approach to procurement, beginning with the purchase of 12 new fighters. The remainder of the acquisition would depend on the establishment of a legal framework for government-to-government soft loans, which would be necessary to finance the full scope of the project.
Other major contenders for the remaining 30 aircraft include the American-made F-16 Block 70/72 Viper and Sweden’s JAS-39 Gripen. The PAF has reportedly expressed a preference for the F-16 due to its extensive access to American spare parts and its compatibility with existing US support infrastructure. These logistical benefits are further supported by long-standing defence agreements between the US and the Philippines, including the Mutual Defence Treaty and the Visiting Forces Agreement. However, the Swedish Gripen presents a strong case as well. Saab, the manufacturer, has emphasised the Gripen’s lower operational costs and compatibility with the Meteor long-range missile, a feature that the F-16 lacks. Additionally, the Gripen’s advanced airborne early warning and control (AEWC) systems, such as Erieye and Global Eye, could be a significant asset for the PAF. These AEWC systems would allow the PAF to improve its surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities, enhancing overall air force effectiveness. That said, these systems are also compatible with the F-16 and KF-21, meaning the decision will likely come down to factors beyond system compatibility.
Meanwhile, another option being considered by the DND is KAI’s FA-50 Block-20, though this fighter would likely serve a different role in the Philippines’ broader modernisation programme. Alongside this, other aircraft, such as the Indian Tejas, French Rafale, and Eurofighter Typhoon, have also been evaluated as part of the Philippines’ long-term plans. Nevertheless, the KF-21, F-16, and Gripen remain the top contenders for the MRF project.
Meanwhile, the US has expressed strong interest in supporting the Philippines’ defence initiatives. A proposed law in the US Congress, known as the Philippine Enhanced Resilience Act (PERA), could provide up to USD 2.5 billion in Foreign Military Financing (FMF), part of which could be used to fund the MRF programme. This would give the F-16 a substantial edge over its competitors, as the FMF support would enable the Philippines to proceed with the acquisition without needing to establish a complex legal framework for loans. The financial assistance would ease budget constraints and potentially push the PAF towards favouring the F-16, despite the logistical and operational advantages of the Gripen. KAI’s KF-21 remains a strong competitor in the MRF race, particularly due to its affordability and future upgrade potential.
The aircraft’s ability to carry both the Meteor and AIM-120C7 AMRAAM missiles makes it a versatile option for the PAF, addressing concerns about competitiveness with Chinese missile technology.
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