American aircraft manufacturer Lockheed Martin said it is ready to support the multi-role fighter (MRF) acquisition program of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) through its F-16 Block 70 aircraft.

In a statement, Ms. Aimee Burnett, vice president of Lockheed Martin F-16 business development unit, said the aircraft seamlessly integrates into the PAF’s fleet as it has common features with the FA-50 fighter jet in terms of support equipment, driving affordability, and pilot readiness.

“Lockheed Martin is proud to support the Philippines' efforts to modernize its air power capabilities with the F-16 Block 70. 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,” she stated.

Earlier this month, the US State Department has given the go signal for the possible foreign military sale of 20 units of F-16 fighter jets to the Philippines for $5.58 billion.

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. had said the military is considering possible contenders for the MRF acquisition program, such as the US Lockheed Martin’s F-16 and Swedish Saab’s JAS-39 Gripen, among others.

“We are hoping to expedite the acquisition of these assets because it is very important for us. We are still in the process of determining which one we can get according to our fiscal space, according to how we can afford these platforms,” Brawner said in an interview during the 49th founding anniversary of the 2nd Infantry Division (2ID) at Camp General Mateo Capinpin in Tanay, Rizal two weeks ago.

The military chief also said it would be "more possible" for the PAF to buy another 12 units of FA-50 fighters "because it is already in the pipeline."

But according to Burnett, the F-16 Block 70 has a proven track record of reliability, versatility, and effectiveness, with over 3,100 aircraft operating in 28 countries.

She said it 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).

Recently, the F-16 participated in the PAF and United States Air Force’s Cope Thunder exercise at Clark Air Base in Pampanga, demonstrating its capabilities and interoperability with the PAF.

The 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.

Burnett said the F-16 can also be maintained and supported in-country, with the PAF 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,” Burnett added.

“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,” she continued.

Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. said the Philippines has yet to receive a formal offer from interested parties for the MRF acquisition program.