US approves $5.58B sale of 20 F-16s to Philippines

The US Department of State has approved a potential foreign military sale of 20 F-16 fighter jets and other defense equipment to the Philippines for approximately USD5.58 billion.

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin emphasized that the procurement is crucial in strengthening the Philippines' defense posture, clarifying it is not intended to target any specific country or harm third-party interests.

Philippine officials have requested 16 F-16C Block 70/72 fighter jets and four F-16D Block 70/72 aircraft as part of the Philippines' ongoing efforts to modernize its armed forces under the US defense alliance.

National Security Council Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya assured China that the planned procurement is not aimed at any nation but rather an upgrade to bolster maritime domain awareness and counter China's military presence in the South China Sea, noting it aligns with the Trump administration’s commitment to Philippine defense.

Philippine Defense Department officials plan to discuss financing options with their American counterparts soon, as part of the country's efforts to enhance interoperability with US forces without altering regional military balance.