Manila needs multi-role fighters for deterrence capabilities — Air Force

THE PHILIPPINES needs multi-role fighters on top of light fighter jets to make China “think twice” before committing aggression, Manila’s top air force general said on Tuesday, with the planes being touted as a strong deterrent against foreign hostilities.

- By Kenneth Christiane L. Basilio

Having multi-role fighters would give the Southeast Asian nation formidable air combat capabilities, as it seeks to push back against Beijing’s expansive claims in the South China Sea, Philippine Air Force Commander Lieutenant General Arthur M. Cordura told a news briefing.

“We cannot be at par with China in 10 to 20 years from now,” he said in mixed English and Filipino. “That's the reality here.”

“But we can project what we call credible deterrence,” he added, referring to having advanced fighter jets. “They will think twice before intruding into the country.”

The Philippines has been window-shopping for multi-role combat aircraft as part of efforts to boost its inventory of air force planes, which mainly consist of turboprops, amid tensions with China in the South China Sea.

The Defense department is “very close” to deciding on what advanced jets it would buy, Mr. Cordura said, noting that the air force wants fighters with “asymmetric” capabilities and could carry heavy weapon payloads for long-range flights.

“We need a platform that has longer endurance, a greater payload for ammunition, and has asymmetric capabilities,” he said.