Talks reportedly advanced following the Seoul International Aerospace & Defence Exhibition 2025, where the KF-21 was demonstrated by the Republic of Korea Air Force. The aircraft attracted attention from visiting delegations, including senior Philippine Air Force (PAF) officials.
Park Seonhee, KAI’s senior manager for international business development (Asia), told This Week in Asia that the Philippines’ operational experience with the FA-50 light combat aircraft offers a solid foundation for further collaboration.“Their actual combat experience also serves as a strong reference that can be promoted to other countries,” Park said. “We value the Philippine Air Force – they already operate the FA-50 and recently ordered additional units. We are committed to supporting them in strengthening their capabilities.”
The PAF currently operates 12 FA-50s and earlier this year placed an order for 12 upgraded versions. KAI, which also displayed the FA-50, KUH-1 Surion utility helicopter, and Light Armed Helicopter at the Seoul event, has maintained a consistent operational record with its aircraft.“Our strong point is that we can keep the operational rate anytime more than 85 percent,” said Daeseo Park, a retired Republic of Korea Air Force colonel now advising KAI’s global business division. “That means if something happens, then your FA-50 is ready to fight anytime, anywhere.”
The KF-21, a 4.5-generation platform intended to compete with China’s J-10 and FC-31, is expected to enter service in 2026. KAI is positioning the jet as a cost-effective yet capable option for air forces in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
Vincent Kyle Parada, an Emerging Leaders Fellow at FACTS Asia and former Philippine Navy defense analyst, noted that South Korea’s growing defense exports reflect shifting dynamics among regional middle powers.
“They’re generally seen as reliable despite their lower cost relative to Western manufacturers,” he said. “Because they’re nearer, South Korean manufacturers can provide significant after-sales service support to regional clients, including tech transfers.”
While Manila has not confirmed how many KF-21 units it might seek, the talks underscore both nations’ deepening defense partnership. South Korea aims to rank among the world’s top four defense exporters, with Southeast Asia viewed as a key growth market.