Philippines Security Soars with Latest F-16 Platform: U.S. Approval Paves Way for Enhanced Air Power Capabilities and Self-Reliant Defense Posture

April 24, 2025 10:00 AM AEST | By Cision

Philippines Security Soars with Latest F-16 Platform: U.S. Approval Paves Way for Enhanced Air Power Capabilities and Self-Reliant Defense Posture — Image source: Kalkine Media

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MANILA, Philippines, April 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The U.S. State Department's recent approval of the proposed sale of 20 F-16 Block 70 aircraft to the Philippines marks a significant milestone in the country's efforts to modernize its air power capabilities. The F-16 Block 70 is a highly advanced and proven platform for air-to-air defense and air-to-ground support, with advanced technology and mission systems, including the life-saving Automatic Ground Collision Avoidance System (Auto GCAS).

The F-16 Block 70 provides advanced air power capabilities and enhances combat readiness of air forces around the world.

The F-16 has a proven track record of reliability, versatility, and effectiveness, with over 3,100 aircraft operating in 28 countries. Recently, the F-16 participated in the Cope Thunder exercise at Clark Air Base, Pampanga demonstrating its capabilities and interoperability with the Philippine Air Force. This exercise showcased the F-16's ability to operate in a complex and dynamic environment, and its effectiveness in enhancing the combat readiness of air forces in the Asia-Pacific region.

"Lockheed Martin is proud to support the Philippines' efforts to modernize its air power capabilities with the F-16 Block 70," said Aimee Burnett, vice president - Lockheed Martin F-16 Business Development. "The F-16 Block 70 will deliver advanced capabilities and performance to address the Philippines' defense requirements and serve as a strategic asset to support the country's Self-Reliant Defense Posture."

The F-16 seamlessly integrates into the Philippine Air Force fleet, with commonality with the FA-50 in terms of support equipment, driving affordability and pilot readiness. Additionally, the F-16 can be maintained and supported in-country, with the Philippine Air Force having the capability to ensure its F-16 fleet remains operational and ready, further enhancing its self-reliant vision.

"As an industry partner on both the Black Hawk and C-130 platforms, Lockheed Martin is uniquely positioned to address the Philippines' sustainment needs and enhance industrial cooperation opportunities," adds Burnett. "The F-16 offer builds upon decades of worldwide technical transfer experience and could include robust workforce development programs and in-country maintenance and repair capabilities, among other research & development concepts currently being discussed with the Philippine government, industry and academia."

More information about the F-16 Block 70 for the Philippines at https://lockheedmartin.com/en-ph/index.html.

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 Lockheedmartin.com.

Lockheed Martin Test Pilot Monessa “Siren” Balzhiser, and Dwayne “Pro” Opella prepare for the 2023 inaugural flight of the first F-16 Block 70.

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