The Philippine Air Force (PAF) is actively considering the Japanese F-2 multi-role fighter as a potential cornerstone for its future air combat capabilities. This deliberation signals a strategic openness by the Philippines to diversify its sources for advanced military aircraft, moving beyond traditional avenues like the U.S. Foreign Military Sales system. Any final selection, as noted by Gen. Arthur Cordura, would need to align seamlessly with the Department of National Defense’s overarching Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept (CADC).
The Mitsubishi F-2, a product of joint development between Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Lockheed Martin, is notably derived from the General Dynamics F-16C Block 40, yet features extensive modifications. These enhancements include a 25% larger wing area for increased payload capacity, the innovative use of graphite-epoxy composite materials to reduce weight and radar cross-section, and an enlarged tailplane. Critically, the F-2 holds the distinction of being the first operational combat aircraft equipped with an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, the Japanese-developed J/APG-1 or J/APG-2, offering superior situational awareness.
Beyond its radar, the F-2 boasts a redesigned cockpit with three liquid crystal displays, a jointly developed digital fly-by-wire system, and a suite of domestically developed Japanese components, including its mission computer, radar warning receiver, and electronic warfare systems. Powered by a General Electric F110-IHI-129 turbofan engine, built under license in Japan, the aircraft can achieve a maximum speed of Mach 2.0 and has a combat radius of 450 nautical miles.
Its stores management system is fully compatible with Japanese-designed munitions, allowing it to carry four indigenous anti-ship missiles in addition to standard air-to-air and air-to-ground weaponry, further enhancing its multi-role capability.
While the F-2 presents a compelling option, no official procurement steps have yet been initiated. Its advanced performance characteristics, sensor suite, and substantial payload capacity suggest it could fulfill roles significantly beyond those of the FA-50PH or FA-50 Block 70, which the Philippines has recently contracted for.
Future decisions will inevitably weigh logistical compatibility, broader political considerations, and overall cost, along with the crucial assessment of required maintenance infrastructure, training needs, and interoperability with the PAF’s existing assets. This consideration of the F-2 highlights the Philippines’ proactive approach to fortifying its air defense amid evolving regional security dynamics.