Friday, December 11, 2015

US-donated APCs give more striking power to AFP's MID

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 11): US-donated APCs give more striking power to AFP's MID

The arrival of the 77 US-donated M-113A2 armored personnel carriers (APCs) has given the Philippine military's Mechanized Infantry Division (MID) more striking power.

"It's a most welcome development particularly for the (Armed Forces of the Philippines) as it energizes and strengthen (the) MID," AFP spokesperson Col. Restituto Padilla said.

These additional assets also enhance the MID's capability to provide fire support to troops engaged in the battlefield.

The US-donated APCs also ensures the protection and mobility of Filipino troops conducting security operations in the field, he added.

Currently, the MID, which consists of five armored battalions, operated 343 APCs of various types.

Seventy-seven M-113A2 units arrived in Subic Bay, Zambales night-time of Dec. 9.

Another 37 units are expected to be delivered by Dec. 14, completing the 114 APCs pledged by the US to the AFP via its Excess Defense Articles (EDA) Program.

The EDA Program grants excess US military equipment, without cost, to qualified allied countries.

The transfer is a result of a formal request made by the AFP to assist in their defense modernization efforts.

The M-113A2 was developed to provide a survivable and reliable light tracked vehicle that allows for troops to be brought forward under armor for dismounted operations.
 

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