(Manila, 29th — Comprehensive Report) The Philippine Air Force (PAF) will continue its low-profile capability expansion in 2025, not only bolstering its defenses of vast airspace but also enhancing its strength in humanitarian aid and disaster response missions.
According to PAF spokesperson Colonel Kristina Basco, the Air Force received 10 S-70i Black Hawk utility helicopters this year: five inducted into service on August 13, and another five added to the fleet on November 14. These helicopters arrived in the Philippines on July 15 and October 20, respectively, as the third and fourth batches of a contract for 32 S-70i Black Hawks purchased under the Armed Forces Modernization Program. The first two batches were delivered on June 10 and December 9 last year. The procurement contract, signed by former defense secretary Lorenzana on February 22, 2022, is valued at 32 billion Philippine pesos.
Basco noted that, in line with the "Air Force Flight Plan 2040" and the modernization program, the Philippine Air Force is following a clear and orderly long-term capacity-building path, ensuring the force possesses credible, nimble, and ever-ready combat and support capabilities.
The Philippine Air Force currently operates about 35 active Black Hawk helicopters, a model renowned for its multi-role capability, high mobility, and reliability. They are frequently deployed in humanitarian relief, disaster response, troop and supply transport, and tactical support missions. During this year's typhoons Egay, Goring, and Tino, Black Hawks participated in delivering relief supplies to affected communities.
Looking ahead to 2026, Basco stated that the Air Force will further strengthen its combat and reconnaissance capabilities, including increasing the number of FA-50PH light combat aircraft and their sensor and support systems. This aircraft model has regained its rapid aerial strike capability and will be used for air defense, maritime patrols, and close air support missions, helping to bolster national airspace security.
On June 3, the Philippine Air Force signed a contract with Korea Aerospace Industries for the purchase of 12 advanced FA-50PH fighters capable of Mach 1.5 speed. The contract is worth approximately USD 700 million (around 40 billion pesos) and includes comprehensive logistical support. The new jets will feature aerial refueling capabilities, advanced radar, and integrated weapons systems, with deliveries scheduled between 2026 and 2030.
In addition, the Air Force will continue to bring in more A-29B Super Tucano close-support aircraft to enhance precision strike and maritime interdiction capabilities. After 2026, it plans to acquire more C-130J transport planes, N-C212i and Bell 412 helicopters, as well as the final batch of Black Hawks, further strengthening personnel mobility, logistics support, and capacity for humanitarian missions.
According to Basco, the introduction of these modernized assets will help the Philippine Air Force more effectively fulfill its dual mission of defending airspace and serving the public amid a complex security environment and frequent disasters.