The US State Department has approved the Philippine government’s “request” to buy a complete package of 20 F-16 multi-role fighter jets, which analysts say significantly boosts the Philippine Air Force’s (PAF) ability to intercept aircraft over its waters amid increasing Chinese assertiveness in the region.
Manila and Beijing are involved in a long-standing territorial dispute in the South China Sea, marked by vessel ramming and skirmishes between coastguards, and Chinese fighter jets firing flares at a Philippine Air Force transport plane.
The US Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) announced the potential arms deal on Tuesday, just days after US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth’s visit to Manila, stating the purpose of the sale is to enhance the Philippine Air Force’s capabilities in monitoring the seas, providing air support, and defending against enemy air threats.
“This sale will also increase the ability of the Armed Forces of the Philippines to protect vital interests and territory, as well as expand interoperability with the US forces.”
China warned the Philippines against undermining “regional peace” following the potential sale of fighter jets to Manila.
The proposed F-16s would represent a significant upgrade over the PAF’s existing FA-50PH aircraft
Foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said on Wednesday that the Philippines’ defence cooperation with other countries shouldn’t target any third party “nor should it threaten regional peace and security or exacerbate regional tensions”.
