PAF eyes Japanese F-2 fighters for future acquisition, prioritizing radar capabilities

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) commanding general, Lieutenant General Arthur Cordura, stated on Tuesday that Japan's Mitsubishi fighter jets could be a potential option for future acquisition.

Cordura emphasized during a media briefing at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City that the FA-50 jets are already approved with 12 additional units scheduled for delivery from 2026 to 2030, and Japanese-made multi-role fighters like the F-2 are also being considered.

He noted that the selection of multi-role fighter aircraft would depend on how well they fit into the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept (CADC) and enhance Philippine capabilities in maritime domain awareness and humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR).

The Philippines is prioritizing sensors, particularly radars, under Japan's Official Security Assistance program since its establishment in April 2023.

Since then, the Philippines has been the largest recipient of non-combat military aid from Japan, with recent deliveries including coastal surveillance radars to improve maritime awareness.

Cordura highlighted a healthy and progressively increasing defense relationship between Manila and Tokyo, noting that budget considerations are also being taken into account for the potential purchase of multi-role fighters.