PH Army displays drones to public

The Philippine Army showcases its unmanned aerial systems used in the Zamboanga siege at a static display held at Camp Aguinaldo Thursday. Photo courtesy of Captain Mark Posadas/AFP PAO

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Army showcased to the public its drones at a static display at Camp Aguinaldo as part of the anniversary of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Thursday.

This finally confirmed reports that the military used unmanned aerial systems (UAS) during the Zamboanga crisis last September.

The UAS provides real time imagery intelligence and video feed from a particular area with a range of three to seven kilometers and can extend up to 50 kilometers, Army spokesman Captain Anthony Bacus said.

“It complements the existing Human Intelligence/ Signals Intelligence capability of the Army which is used in surveillance operations and also in humanitarian assistance and disaster response,” he added.

He also said the drones had been “instrumental” in their operations against the Moro National Liberation Front in Zamboanga City last September.

The Army started its research and development of drones in 2012 which cost P2.5 million. The first drone (Raptor), is worth P150,000. The second drone (Knight Falcon) is worth P300,000.

A third drone is in the works, which will be a more enhanced version of the two drones. It will cost P1.5 million.

Other Army assets also showcased at the static display were GARMIN Global Positioning System and a 100mm mortar.

The static display showcased the capabilities and new acquisitions of the military. The Philippine Air Force and the Philippine Navy also put up their own booths.

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