The Philippines’ potential purchase of more fighter jets from South Korea and the two countries’ growing military collaboration could push Beijing to feel more “insecure” as tensions roil the contested South China Sea, according to analysts.
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Manila is considering buying an additional 12 units of the South Korean supersonic combat aircraft FA-50 Fighting Eagle Block 20, the Inquirer, a Philippine news outlet reported in January, citing defence department procurement data.
The Fighting Eagle is a variant of the FA-50 with an improved capability for beyond-visual-range air-to-air missions.
The potential 40 billion Philippine peso (US$690 million) deal was expected to be finalised by the middle of the year and would double Manila’s export-variant FA-50PH fleet, according to the report.
The Philippines Air Force currently operates 12 units bought in the early 2010s.
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Manila is ramping up its modernisation efforts within its military, especially the air force, amid increasing tensions with Beijing in the South China Sea.