PH Army finally acquires armored tank bridges

The Philippine Army (PA) continues to upgrade its fleet of military vehicles. Aside from the Sabrah Light Tanks and the K136 “Kooryong” multi-launch rocket artillery vehicles, the PA has also acquired two units of the Israeli-made armored vehicle-launched bridge (AVLB).

Shipped to the Batangas Port last July 12, the two AVLBs are now subject to a post-delivery technical inspection before being deployed to the Army's engineer combat battalions.

“The AVLBs will be inspected by the Technical Inspection and Acceptance Committee of the Department of National Defense’s Procurement Service before acceptance and deployment to the Army's engineer combat battalions,” said Col. Xeres Trinidad, Philippine Army spokesperson.

Trinidad added that the two AVLBs were procured via the Philippine-Israel government-to-government deal. They are also a part of Horizon Two of the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program of which the Sabrah Light Tanks are also under.

“The assets will boost the capabilities of Army engineer combat battalions in supporting maneuver units by providing mobility during operations,” added Trinidad.

What the AVLB lacks in weaponry, it makes up for in (quite) literally bridging the gap between two areas thanks to its built-in bridge. Not only can the AVLB be used during conflicts, but more importantly, they can also be used during natural disasters, humanitarian operations, and help far-flung underdeveloped areas of the country.