US delivers Raven drone system, assault weapons to PHL

The US has delivered new military equipment to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Marine Corps at Clark Air Base on January 27.

The Philippine received new counter-terrorism equipment from the Joint U.S. Military Assistance Group Philippines (JUSMAG) which were procured through a US government's foreign military sales program.

The US had transferred over 400 M203 grenade launchers, 85 M40A5 sniper rifles, and a RQ-11B Raven unmanned aerial vehicle system consisting of three drones.

The procured weapons would enhance the AFP's defense modernization efforts, and would help in assisting Philippine security forces in conducting counter-terrorism operations.

The Raven which is a hand-launched unmanned aircraft system was also provided through the said grant will help in increasing the capabilities of AFP in "conducting intelligence collection, mission planning, and reconnaissance operations."

Philippine service members were also trained on how to handle operations and maintenance.

"The equipment transfer and continued bilateral training efforts demonstrate the commitment between the Philippines and U.S. to work towards safer communities and the eradication of global terror networks," the U.S. embassy said. —Marlly Rome C. Bondoc/NB, GMA News