Latest news with #ComprehensiveArchipelagicDefenseConcept

GMA Network
2 days ago
- Business
- GMA Network
PH acquires 12 FA-50 fighter jets from South Korea for over $700M
File image of an FA-50 jet fighter by Korea Aerospace Industries Ltd. The Philippine government, through the Department of National Defense (DND), has acquired 12 FA-50 Block 70 light combat aircraft from Korea Aerospace Industries Ltd. (KAI) of the Republic of Korea. In a news release, the DND said the acquisition of fighter jets was part of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) modernization program for the Philippine Air Force (PAF). The Defense Department said a Notice to Proceed was issued earlier this month, formalizing the fighter jet purchase contract valued at over $700 million. "The comprehensive package includes mission equipment, integrated logistics support, and a training and logistics information system," it said. "The FA-50 Block 70 represents the latest evolution of the FA-50 platform, featuring advanced avionics, modern radar systems, and extended operational range. Its acquisition marks a significant enhancement to the country's air defense capabilities and aligns with the DND's Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept," it added. The delivery of the aircraft will be carried out in phases over the next five years, with full completion targeted by 2030, according to the Defense Department. "The acquisition underscores the Philippine government's continued commitment to national defense and further strengthens bilateral defense cooperation with the Republic of Korea," the DND said. — VDV, GMA Integrated News
Yahoo
05-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Lockheed Martin Aims to Cultivate Filipino Talent, Stimulate Job Growth and Advance Local Defense Sector with Industrial Collaboration Proposal
MANILA, Philippines, June 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Lockheed Martin has outlined robust industrial collaboration projects for the Philippines, aimed at strengthening its Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept while investing in Filipino talent, technical training, and local industry partnerships. As part of the F-16 Block 70 package, Lockheed Martin will support the country's Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP) by training Filipino technicians, enabling in-country maintenance, and building long-term pathways for aerospace careers through partnerships with universities and industry. "Lockheed Martin's partnership with the Philippines extends beyond providing military capability," said Aimee Burnett, vice president of business development for the Integrated Fighter Group at Lockheed Martin. "As we collaborate with the local industry, we aim to deliver social and economic value by cultivating talent, creating jobs and driving innovation that advances the domestic defense sector and supports holistic progress." "In short, Lockheed Martin is committed to building a long-term partnership that benefits the Philippines and its people," Burnett added. Lockheed Martin has proposed stand-up of several in-country Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul capabilities in the Philippines to support the F-16 and C-130. As part of this effort, Lockheed Martin would provide core technologies and equipment to local industrial partners to enable them to directly repair Philippine Air Force aircraft, leading to greater self-reliance in aerospace sustainment as well as job creation and skills-building opportunities for the Philippines workforce. Lockheed Martin has also proposed the establishment of an Innovation Center in the Philippines, which will serve as the focal point for research and development collaboration, technology transfer and investment. Building upon successful models deployed over the last decade in the United Arab Emirates, Australia and elsewhere, Lockheed Martin would partner with local universities, industries and government partners to provide training programs, allocate funding for research, and create Philippine-owned capabilities in emerging technology sectors. The Lockheed Martin Innovation Center will enable a pipeline of new technologies, skilled workers and empowered entrepreneurs who can drive future innovation and growth in the Philippines. "With the F-16 Block 70, Lockheed Martin is confident it can help the Philippines build a sustainable airpower ecosystem, driven by Filipino talent and supported by local industry, while delivering the advanced capabilities needed to address its most pressing defense requirements," Burnett said. For additional information, visit our website: About Lockheed Martin Lockheed Martin is a global defense technology company driving innovation and advancing scientific discovery. Our all-domain mission solutions and 21st Century Security® vision accelerate the delivery of transformative technologies to ensure those we serve always stay ahead of ready. More information at View original content: SOURCE Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data