Philippine Amb Romualdez: New F-16s may arrive 2024 or 2027

Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez stated on Sunday that the 20 new F-16 fighter jets planned for procurement from the United States may be available starting next year or in 2027.

The acquisition of these fighter jets, part of the Philippines' Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) modernization program, is contingent upon affordability and approval by Congress and the President.

China's continued aggression in the West Philippine Sea has spurred the need for military modernization to bolster defense capabilities.

The AFP aims to procure additional missile systems, fighter jets, and warships as part of its plan to build a more reliable deterrent force against emerging threats.

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin clarified that the procurement is not targeted at any specific country but rather aimed at enhancing national security through strategic capability-building.