MANILA — South Korea is aiming to deliver the first three of the 12 FA-50 Block 70 light combat aircraft to the Philippines before the end of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s term in 2028, South Korean Ambassador to the Philippines Lee Sang-hwa said Tuesday.

The Philippines signed a USD700 million contract last month with Korea Aerospace Industries, Ltd. (KAI) to acquire the 12 fighter jets as part of its efforts to boost air defense capabilities.

“This additional purchase, the 12 FA-50s, we believe it will make a significant improvement also for the Air Force of the Philippines,” Lee said in a luncheon with the press in Makati City.

“The first batch will be delivered, we hope, before the end of the term of the Marcos administration,” he added.

The contract includes a comprehensive package of mission equipment, integrated logistics support, and a training and logistics information system.

The FA-50 Block 70 is the latest variant of the Korea-made combat jet, featuring upgraded avionics, advanced radar systems, and extended operational range. The delivery will be done in phases over the next five years, with full completion targeted by 2030.

Defense cooperation between South Korea and the Philippines continues to deepen after both nations elevated their ties to a strategic partnership in October 2024.

In addition to the FA-50 acquisition, the Philippines recently received the BRP Miguel Malvar (FFG06), a guided-missile frigate built by South Korea’s Hyundai Heavy Industries.

Amid growing regional security concerns, Lee said South Korea remains committed to being a dependable ally.

“As fellow maritime nations, we share an abiding interest in maintaining peace and stability, as well as upholding a rules-based order in the South China Sea and beyond,” he said. (With reports from Joyce Rocamora/PNA)