Philippines Planning Replacement for its S-211 Sub-sonic Jets with Modern Aircraft

The Philippines Air Force (PAF) is planning to replace its twin-seater S-211 sub-sonic jets currently used as training and support aircraft with modern training-light combat aircraft.

Following the completion of delivery of 12 units of South Korean-made FA-50PH light jet fighters, the remaining fleet of S-211 planes which number three or four are being used as training and support aircraft, PAF spokesperson, Col. Maynard Mariano, was quoted as saying by the Philippine News Agency (PNA).

"We are planning for a replacement (for the S-211), research is ongoing, and there will be a presentation (of the possible aircraft models) to the senior leadership soon," he told PNA.

The PAF has already announced that it will decide between the F-16 and the Saab Gripen as its leading fighter aircraft. The new aircraft procurement planned will add a third layer of jets in the training, light combat support and reconnaissance roles.

These jets served as the PAF's sole fighter aircraft following the retirement of its last seven F-5 aircraft, out of a total of 35, in 2005 due to airframe cracks, high fuel costs, and difficulty in finding spare parts.

Aermacchi S-211 can carry a crew of two, has a cruise speed of around 667 kmph, and can carry guns, rockets, and unguided bombs for close-air support missions.