Ascod light tank training for Philippine Forces completed.

General Dynamics European Land Systems-Santa Bárbara Sistemas (GDELS-SBS), the Spanish subsidiary of General Dynamics European Land Systems, has successfully completed the first training session for members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines on the operation, driving, and maintenance of the Ascod Light Tank (LT105). This training took place at Camp O'Donnell military base, located in the municipality of Capas (Tarlac) on Luzon Island, from January 29 to February 9.
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Specialists and the First Tank Battalion of the Philippine Army's First Armored Division after completing training in front of an ASCOD light tank (Picture source: General Dynamics European Land Systems )

The training targeted personnel from the First Tank Battalion of the Philippine Army's First Armored Division and specialists from the Armored Vehicle Maintenance Battalion. It included a course on the operation, driving, and maintenance of the ASCOD tracked armored vehicle for 28 drivers and 15 commanders, as well as a second course on 2nd echelon maintenance for 15 Philippine Army mechanics. A driving course had previously been conducted at the GDELS factory in Alcalá de Guadaíra, near Seville, before the vehicles were dispatched.

In cooperation with the Israeli company Elbit Systems, GDELS-SBS has supplied the Philippine Army with new combat vehicles from the ASCOD family. The SABRAH, a version of the ASCOD adapted for the Philippines, is notable for its protection, mobility, and adaptability to different combat environments. Three variants were delivered: the Light Tank (LT105), the Command Post equipped with an unmanned UT 25 turret, and the Recovery Vehicle (ARV).

In April 2022, the Philippine Army reactivated the First Tank Battalion of the First Armored Division as part of an initiative to enhance the military capabilities of its Armed Forces. "Looking at the future operational landscape, the PA has reactivated the 1st Tank Battalion to provide our infantry and mechanized infantry forces with advanced firepower capability and to raise the standards of protection, especially in conducting contingency missions and combined arms and joint operations in the country," stated Army Chief Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. in April 2022.

The Philippines is the fourth country to operate the ASCOD vehicle, which is currently in service in Spain (under the name Pizarro), Austria (Ulan), and Great Britain (Ajax).

The Sabrah, a new generation 30-ton Light Tank fully designed and developed by the Israeli company Elbit Systems, is based on the tracked armored chassis of the ASCOD 2 manufactured by GDELS (General Dynamics European Land Systems).

The acquisition of the Sabrah light tanks in 2022 from Israel was part of the Philippine army's Light Tank Acquisition Project under Horizon Two of the Revised Armed Forces Modernization Program (RAFPMP). The contract included 18 tracked light tanks, 10 wheeled light tanks (based on the Pandur II), one command vehicle, and one recovery vehicle.

The ASCOD is a highly mobile light armored vehicle, offering significant agility and maneuverability across various terrains. It is powered by a robust engine, providing a high power-to-weight ratio that facilitates rapid acceleration and a high top speed. This speed and agility are essential for tactical maneuvering in combat and strategic mobility over longer distances. The vehicle's advanced suspension system enhances its mobility, ensuring smooth travel over rough terrain and improving off-road capabilities. The suspension system also contributes to stability, especially important when the vehicle is equipped with heavy armaments or additional armor.

Elbit Systems' UT25 unmanned turret is designed for modern armored fighting vehicles, capable of mounting either a 25 mm M242 automatic cannon or a 30 mm MK44 cannon, both from ATK, and includes a coaxial 7.62 mm machine gun. This turret is part of Elbit Systems' initiative to provide advanced, remotely operated armaments for military vehicles, enhancing their firepower and operational capabilities while ensuring crew safety within the vehicle's armored protection.

Defense News February 2024