We received word from several sources that the push forward on the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) between the US and Philippine defense departments has bolstered efforts to gain support and influence to support the selection of the Lockheed Martin F-16 Block 70 Viper.

The EDCA is said to help make it easier for the US to support F-16 operations and sustainment of the Philippines since it is their country's product, and their supply chain supports F-16s and their subsystems.

The US cannot provide any support for the JAS-39 Gripem except for emergency requirements for ammunition, since the Gripen is not in service with the US military, and has subsystems that are not even in the US military's supply chains.

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