The United States has approved a potential Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to the Government of the Philippines, which includes F-16 aircraft and related equipment for an estimated cost of $5.58 billion. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has formally notified Congress regarding the possible transaction.
According to the DSCA, the Philippine government has requested a total of 20 F-16 Block 70/72 aircraft, comprising 16 single-seat F-16C and four two-seat F-16D models. The package also includes engines, avionics, radar systems, electronic warfare systems, weapons, and various support equipment.
Among the requested equipment are 24 F110-GE-129D or F100-PW-229 engines, 22 AN/APG-83 Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radars, 88 LAU-129 guided missile launchers, and 112 AIM-120C-8 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAMs). The deal also includes Sniper Advanced Targeting Pods, Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) kits, air combat maneuvering instrumentation, night vision devices, and other logistics and program support elements.
The sale is intended to enhance the Philippine Air Force’s capabilities in maritime domain awareness, close air support, suppression of enemy air defenses (SEAD), and aerial interdiction missions. Additionally, it aims to improve the interoperability of the Philippine military with U.S. forces.
Lockheed Martin, based in Greenville, South Carolina, has been identified as the principal contractor for the proposed sale. The U.S. government has not announced any offset agreements related to the transaction, and any such arrangements will be subject to future negotiations between the Philippines and the contractor.
According to the DSCA, the sale will not require additional U.S. government or contractor personnel to be stationed in the Philippines. It is also not expected to affect the defense readiness of the United States.
While the estimated cost is set at $5.58 billion, the final value may vary based on contract negotiations, budget allocations, and finalized agreements.