Philippines to receive the first 2 of 12 FA-50 fighter jets from S. Korea, plans to buy submarines

05/25/2015 – Manila | On March 24, 2014, the Department of Defense (DND) signed a contract with South Korea for the purchase of 12 FA-50 fighter jets worth $415.7 million. The FA-50 supersonic multirole fighter plane is one of the world’s few supersonic trainers and multi role fighters

The first 2 units will be delivered 18 months after the contract signing according to the agreement. In March 2015, Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) reported that the Philippines plans to order additional FA-50s.

Amid growing tension in South China Sea, the Philippines is considering a serious military upgrade.

Navy chief Vice Admiral Jesus Millan told ABS CBN News on Wednesday that the Navy is eyeing to purchase submarines to protect its deep water and open coastlines.

Navy chief Vice Admiral Jesus Millan told ABS CBN News on Wednesday the acquisition of submarines cannot happen overnight, but nonetheless an office to handle the development of submarine capability has been set up.

“What we are pursuing of course is to take the initiative. The first important thing is to acknowledge the importance of such capability for our future requirements,” he said.

Navy vice commander Rear Adm. Caesar Taccad said in December that the submarines could be used as “deterrents.
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Taccad had said the submarines would serve as a deterrent “so other countries will not try to interfere with our peaceful exercise of sovereignty over our maritime areas.”

Millan said the submarines “can bring a lot of help to us.”

Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said that the Philippines is not relying in American forces to protect its backyard.

A senior Navy officer who refused to identify himself said that the country can have a full protection on its own within ten years if plans like this could be materialized.

He also noted that upgrading both BRP Grogeorio del Pilar and Ramon Alcaraz and maximizing its armaments will be enough to protect the waters near the disputed regions.

“Both ships can defeat any navy in South China Sea is harpoon missiles, CIWS phalanx, and other previous weaponry will be refitted. Both ships are one of the most modern and fastest warships in South East Asia with full armaments fitted”, the officer added.

The acquisition of submarines will be done in the next three to five years according to sources. The quantity is not yet determined but sources said the number can be from two to five.

SPYDER Air Defense Missile System is currently on talks with Israel and plan to buy these sophisticated armament is still under consideration. The Philippines is the only country in South East Asia without air defense system.

“With proper appropriation, the Philippines could have again a powerful military within ten years  if all of these plans will turn into reality”, the officer added.

/Fanny Jalacjac/ Assisted Press Manila

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