Phl defense modernization: 1st batch of APCs from US arrives in Subic Bay

77 units of M113A2 Armed Personnel Carriers (APC) arrived in Subic Bay yesterday (Wednesday) evening. This was the first shipment of 114 such vehicles to arrive.

The second shipment of 37 units is scheduled to arrive on 14 Dec, and the remainder will be delivered later this month.

The APCs will be transferred from the U.S. government to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) via the Excess Defense Article (EDA) Program.

The EDA Program grants excess U.S. military equipment from the U.S., 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 M113 was developed to provide a survivable and reliable light tracked vehicle that allows for troops to be brought forward under armor for dismounted operations.

A number of the vehicles are scheduled to participate in the annual AFP Day Parade, Dec. 21.

The AFP is scheduled to receive the remaining vehicles later this month.

PHOTO:
Philippine Defense and Armed Forces officials say the newly procured M113A2 armored vehicles with remote controlled weapons systems will be used mostly in Mindanao. (CNNPH)

http://manila.usembassy.gov/press-photo-releases-2015/usg-transfers-armored-personnel-carriers-afp.html