Philippine Air Force considers Japanese F-2 as candidate for future multi-role fighter acquisition
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The Philippine Air Force (PAF) confirmed on June 24, 2025, that Japanese-made Mitsubishi F-2 multirole fighters are under consideration for future acquisition programs. This statement was made by Air Force Chief Lt. Gen. Arthur Cordura during a media briefing held at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City. Cordura noted that the FA-50 light attack aircraft, specifically the Block 70 variant from Korea Aerospace Industries, are already part of an approved procurement plan. He added that the Mitsubishi F-2, which he referred to as a Japanese-made multirole fighter, remains a potential platform for future acquisition programs.Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link
Over 95% of the F-16C engineering drawings were modified for the F-2, resulting in a fighter jet with greater payload capacity, extended range, and enhanced maritime strike capability, making it more specialized for Japan’s defense needs. (Picture source: Japanese Air Force)
Gen. Arthur Cordura also stated that any such selection would depend on how the aircraft aligns with the Department of National Defense’s evaluation of its suitability for integration into the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept (CADC), which serves as the structural framework for the Philippines’ territorial defense strategy. He did not exclude the possibility of acquiring Japanese aircraft in the future if they serve the objectives of the national defense posture.
The contract for the FA-50 Block 70 was signed on June 4, 2025, and is valued at $700 million. It includes the delivery of 12 additional units from 2026 to 2030. These aircraft follow the earlier delivery of 12 FA-50PH units, which were received between 2015 and 2017. The FA-50 Block 70 version is described as significantly more capable, with improvements in avionics, combat systems, and flight performance. It is capable of reaching a top speed of Mach 1.5 and will be used both as a light combat aircraft and an advanced jet trainer. Cordura’s mention of the Japanese F-2 in the same briefing indicates that the PAF is reviewing heavier, more advanced platforms that could be used for territorial defense roles. This consideration may be tied to long-term planning beyond the current FA-50 program and signals an openness to diversifying fighter jet sources, including platforms that are not part of the U.S. Foreign Military Sales system.
The Mitsubishi F-2 multirole fighter is developed jointly by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Lockheed Martin, based on the General Dynamics F-16C Block 40. It is manufactured under a 60/40 industrial split between Japan and the United States and was intended to replace the Mitsubishi F-1. Production started in 1995 following a complex series of U.S.-Japan negotiations, culminating in an agreement signed in 1988 that limited Japan’s access to certain U.S. technologies while granting the U.S. access to Japanese innovations. The F-2 had its first flight in October 1995 and entered service in 2000. Originally, Japan planned to procure 141 units, but the total production was reduced to 98 aircraft, including four prototypes, due to cost concerns and structural challenges during the development phase. As of March 2022, 91 units were in service with the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF), operated by several squadrons including the 3rd and 6th Tactical Fighter Squadrons.
Over 95% of the F-16C engineering drawings were altered for the F-2, resulting in structural, electronic, and aerodynamic changes that distinguish it significantly from its predecessor. The F-2 features a 25% increase in wing area compared to the F-16C, which enhances lift and allows for higher payloads, while also contributing to reduced wing loading. To address the increased surface area and preserve weight efficiency, the wings and associated structures, such as spars, ribs, and caps, were manufactured using graphite-epoxy composite materials. These components were co-cured in an autoclave, marking the first use of such manufacturing techniques on a production tactical fighter. The use of composite materials also contributes to a reduced radar cross-section, providing limited signature management benefits. The tailplane was enlarged to balance the aerodynamic changes introduced by the larger wings and other structural modifications.
In addition to structural changes, the F-2, nicknamed Viper Zero, incorporates a longer and wider nose section that accommodates the Japanese-developed J/APG-1 or J/APG-2 active electronically scanned array radar. This modification led to the F-2 becoming the first operational combat aircraft to be equipped with an AESA radar, preceding similar systems adopted later by the F-22 and other Western platforms. The aircraft also includes a redesigned cockpit layout with three liquid crystal displays and a three-piece canopy, differing from the F-16’s single-piece design. Flight control is managed by a digital fly-by-wire system developed jointly by Japan Aviation Electric and Honeywell, distinct from the one used in the F-16. The aircraft’s mission computer, radar warning receiver, and electronic warfare systems were all developed domestically in Japan, and the software for flight control laws and integration was also designed and tested locally. These components were integrated in Japan during final assembly by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries at the Komaki-South facility.
The F-2’s General Electric F110-IHI-129 turbofan engine, built under license by IHI in Japan, provides 131 kN of thrust with afterburner, allowing the fighter to have a maximum speed of Mach 2.0 and a combat radius of 450 nautical miles. The airframe was modified to accommodate this engine while retaining compatibility with Japanese manufacturing and maintenance capabilities. The structural changes, including new air intake geometry, were implemented to support aerodynamic adjustments and the volume increase in the forward fuselage driven by radar and avionics requirements. Although the aircraft is based on the F-16C Block 40, the composite wings and domestic avionics result in a platform with different mission profiles and maintenance requirements. The stores management system, integrated by Lockheed Martin, differs from the F-16’s standard configuration to allow compatibility with Japanese-designed munitions and targeting systems such as the J/AAQ-2.
These modifications enable the F-2 to carry four indigenous anti-ship missiles (ASM-1, ASM-2, or ASM-3) in addition to standard air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons, whereas the F-16C was not originally configured for such a loadout. The F-2 is equipped with a 20mm JM61A2 six-barrel rotary cannon and has 11 external hardpoints, including two wingtip missile launch rails, eight underwing pylons, and one under-fuselage station, for a total external ordnance load of up to 8,085 kg. It can be armed with a wide range of Japanese and U.S. air-to-air missiles such as the Mitsubishi AAM-3, AAM-4, AAM-5, and AIM-9L Sidewinder. Guided munitions compatible with the F-2 include 500 lb and 2,000 lb JDAMs, GCS-1 infrared-guided bombs, and LJDAMs. The aircraft can also deploy unguided bombs and rocket pods. The incorporation of Japanese guidance systems and fire control architecture enables the integration of locally produced guided bombs such as the GCS-1.
Lt. Gen. Cordura’s statement places the Mitsubishi F-2 as a possible future candidate in the PAF’s multirole fighter development strategy, but no official procurement steps have been taken. The aircraft’s performance characteristics, sensor suite, and payload capacity suggest it could fulfill roles beyond those currently possible with the FA-50PH or even the FA-50 Block 70. While logistical compatibility, political considerations, and cost will influence any future decision, the F-2 is a platform with extensive operational service and combat readiness. Its potential integration into the Philippine defense framework would require assessment of maintenance infrastructure, training needs, and interoperability with existing and planned assets. The mention of Japan as a source for possible future platforms reflects an evolving Philippine defense posture that may include cooperation with regional partners beyond traditional suppliers.
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The Philippine Air Force (PAF) confirmed on June 24, 2025, that Japanese-made Mitsubishi F-2 multirole fighters are under consideration for future acquisition programs. This statement was made by Air Force Chief Lt. Gen. Arthur Cordura during a media briefing held at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City. Cordura noted that the FA-50 light attack aircraft, specifically the Block 70 variant from Korea Aerospace Industries, are already part of an approved procurement plan. He added that the Mitsubishi F-2, which he referred to as a Japanese-made multirole fighter, remains a potential platform for future acquisition programs.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link
Over 95% of the F-16C engineering drawings were modified for the F-2, resulting in a fighter jet with greater payload capacity, extended range, and enhanced maritime strike capability, making it more specialized for Japan’s defense needs. (Picture source: Japanese Air Force)
Gen. Arthur Cordura also stated that any such selection would depend on how the aircraft aligns with the Department of National Defense’s evaluation of its suitability for integration into the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept (CADC), which serves as the structural framework for the Philippines’ territorial defense strategy. He did not exclude the possibility of acquiring Japanese aircraft in the future if they serve the objectives of the national defense posture.
The contract for the FA-50 Block 70 was signed on June 4, 2025, and is valued at $700 million. It includes the delivery of 12 additional units from 2026 to 2030. These aircraft follow the earlier delivery of 12 FA-50PH units, which were received between 2015 and 2017. The FA-50 Block 70 version is described as significantly more capable, with improvements in avionics, combat systems, and flight performance. It is capable of reaching a top speed of Mach 1.5 and will be used both as a light combat aircraft and an advanced jet trainer. Cordura’s mention of the Japanese F-2 in the same briefing indicates that the PAF is reviewing heavier, more advanced platforms that could be used for territorial defense roles. This consideration may be tied to long-term planning beyond the current FA-50 program and signals an openness to diversifying fighter jet sources, including platforms that are not part of the U.S. Foreign Military Sales system.
The Mitsubishi F-2 multirole fighter is developed jointly by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Lockheed Martin, based on the General Dynamics F-16C Block 40. It is manufactured under a 60/40 industrial split between Japan and the United States and was intended to replace the Mitsubishi F-1. Production started in 1995 following a complex series of U.S.-Japan negotiations, culminating in an agreement signed in 1988 that limited Japan’s access to certain U.S. technologies while granting the U.S. access to Japanese innovations. The F-2 had its first flight in October 1995 and entered service in 2000. Originally, Japan planned to procure 141 units, but the total production was reduced to 98 aircraft, including four prototypes, due to cost concerns and structural challenges during the development phase. As of March 2022, 91 units were in service with the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF), operated by several squadrons including the 3rd and 6th Tactical Fighter Squadrons.
Over 95% of the F-16C engineering drawings were altered for the F-2, resulting in structural, electronic, and aerodynamic changes that distinguish it significantly from its predecessor. The F-2 features a 25% increase in wing area compared to the F-16C, which enhances lift and allows for higher payloads, while also contributing to reduced wing loading. To address the increased surface area and preserve weight efficiency, the wings and associated structures, such as spars, ribs, and caps, were manufactured using graphite-epoxy composite materials. These components were co-cured in an autoclave, marking the first use of such manufacturing techniques on a production tactical fighter. The use of composite materials also contributes to a reduced radar cross-section, providing limited signature management benefits. The tailplane was enlarged to balance the aerodynamic changes introduced by the larger wings and other structural modifications.
In addition to structural changes, the F-2, nicknamed Viper Zero, incorporates a longer and wider nose section that accommodates the Japanese-developed J/APG-1 or J/APG-2 active electronically scanned array radar. This modification led to the F-2 becoming the first operational combat aircraft to be equipped with an AESA radar, preceding similar systems adopted later by the F-22 and other Western platforms. The aircraft also includes a redesigned cockpit layout with three liquid crystal displays and a three-piece canopy, differing from the F-16’s single-piece design. Flight control is managed by a digital fly-by-wire system developed jointly by Japan Aviation Electric and Honeywell, distinct from the one used in the F-16. The aircraft’s mission computer, radar warning receiver, and electronic warfare systems were all developed domestically in Japan, and the software for flight control laws and integration was also designed and tested locally. These components were integrated in Japan during final assembly by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries at the Komaki-South facility.
The F-2’s General Electric F110-IHI-129 turbofan engine, built under license by IHI in Japan, provides 131 kN of thrust with afterburner, allowing the fighter to have a maximum speed of Mach 2.0 and a combat radius of 450 nautical miles. The airframe was modified to accommodate this engine while retaining compatibility with Japanese manufacturing and maintenance capabilities. The structural changes, including new air intake geometry, were implemented to support aerodynamic adjustments and the volume increase in the forward fuselage driven by radar and avionics requirements. Although the aircraft is based on the F-16C Block 40, the composite wings and domestic avionics result in a platform with different mission profiles and maintenance requirements. The stores management system, integrated by Lockheed Martin, differs from the F-16’s standard configuration to allow compatibility with Japanese-designed munitions and targeting systems such as the J/AAQ-2.
These modifications enable the F-2 to carry four indigenous anti-ship missiles (ASM-1, ASM-2, or ASM-3) in addition to standard air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons, whereas the F-16C was not originally configured for such a loadout. The F-2 is equipped with a 20mm JM61A2 six-barrel rotary cannon and has 11 external hardpoints, including two wingtip missile launch rails, eight underwing pylons, and one under-fuselage station, for a total external ordnance load of up to 8,085 kg. It can be armed with a wide range of Japanese and U.S. air-to-air missiles such as the Mitsubishi AAM-3, AAM-4, AAM-5, and AIM-9L Sidewinder. Guided munitions compatible with the F-2 include 500 lb and 2,000 lb JDAMs, GCS-1 infrared-guided bombs, and LJDAMs. The aircraft can also deploy unguided bombs and rocket pods. The incorporation of Japanese guidance systems and fire control architecture enables the integration of locally produced guided bombs such as the GCS-1.
Lt. Gen. Cordura’s statement places the Mitsubishi F-2 as a possible future candidate in the PAF’s multirole fighter development strategy, but no official procurement steps have been taken. The aircraft’s performance characteristics, sensor suite, and payload capacity suggest it could fulfill roles beyond those currently possible with the FA-50PH or even the FA-50 Block 70. While logistical compatibility, political considerations, and cost will influence any future decision, the F-2 is a platform with extensive operational service and combat readiness. Its potential integration into the Philippine defense framework would require assessment of maintenance infrastructure, training needs, and interoperability with existing and planned assets. The mention of Japan as a source for possible future platforms reflects an evolving Philippine defense posture that may include cooperation with regional partners beyond traditional suppliers.
