Philippine Army Conduct First Intensive Gunnery Training with New Israeli Sabrah Light Tanks.

From July 8 to 11, 2024, the 1st Tank (MASIKAN) Battalion of the Philippine Armed Forces, led by LTC Ian Kristin D. Hamlag ARM (GSC) PA, conducted intensive gunnery training and live firing exercises with the Sabrah 105mm Light Tanks at Camp Ernesto Ravina Air Base (CERAB). This event, highlighted on the battalion's official Facebook page, was integral to maintaining the unit's combat readiness and operational efficiency.
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The Sabrah is a new generation of light tank equipped with a 105mm cannon which is now in service with the Philippine army. (Picture source: Facebook 1st Tank (MASIKAN) Battalion  PA)

The training provided both seasoned soldiers and new trainees with invaluable hands-on experience, involving a series of realistic combat scenarios designed to test and enhance the accuracy, reliability, and firepower of the Sabrah 105mm Light Tanks. The rigorous sessions were overseen by Major General Pedro C. Balisi Jr. PA, Commander of the Armor Pambato Division, who emphasized the importance of these exercises in ensuring the highest standards of military effectiveness and preparedness.

The Sabrah Light Tank, manufactured by the Israeli Company Elbit Systems, is a versatile and advanced armored vehicle equipped with a 105mm cannon. This tank is designed for rapid deployment and superior firepower, featuring state-of-the-art fire control systems, enhanced armor protection, and advanced target acquisition capabilities. The Sabrah's technical features include a 105mm cannon capable of firing a variety of munitions, providing high lethality against armored threats. It is equipped with an advanced fire control system for improved accuracy and efficiency, and enhanced composite armor for superior protection against a wide range of battlefield threats. The tank is designed for rapid deployment with excellent off-road capabilities and high-speed maneuverability, accommodating a crew of three, including the commander, gunner, and driver, with an ergonomic design for optimal operational efficiency.

Israeli Company Elbit Systems, the manufacturer, is renowned for its cutting-edge defense technologies and has a global reputation for producing advanced military equipment. The Sabrah Light Tank is a testament to their expertise in delivering high-performance armored vehicles tailored for modern warfare. The acquisition of the Sabrah light tank by the Philippines was signed in October 2020, marking a significant step in enhancing the country's armored capabilities. The Philippines has acquired a total of 18 Sabrah Light Tanks. The first delivery of these tanks was completed in December 2022, further bolstering the Philippine military's operational readiness.

The success of the training exercises at CERAB underscores the Philippine Armed Forces' commitment to maintaining a robust and capable defense force, ready to respond to any threat with precision and effectiveness.

In a country like the Philippines, the advantages of light tanks compared to heavy tanks are particularly pronounced due to the unique geographical and operational conditions.

Firstly, the terrain in the Philippines, characterized by dense forests, mountainous regions, and numerous islands, favors the use of light tanks. Light tanks are more agile and maneuverable than heavy tanks, making them better suited for operations in rough, uneven, and confined environments. Their lighter weight allows them to navigate difficult terrains, such as narrow roads, jungle paths, and steep inclines, more effectively than heavier, bulkier tanks.

Secondly, the logistical flexibility of light tanks provides a significant advantage. The Philippines' archipelagic nature means that military units often need to be transported across water. Light tanks are easier to transport via air, sea, and land due to their lower weight and size. They can be quickly deployed to various islands and remote areas where infrastructure may be limited or unsuitable for heavy tanks.

Additionally, the cost-effectiveness of light tanks is a crucial factor. Light tanks are generally less expensive to produce, maintain, and operate than heavy tanks. For a country like the Philippines, which must balance a range of defense priorities within its budget, the lower operational costs of light tanks make them an attractive option.

Operational versatility is another key advantage. Light tanks can perform a wide range of roles, including reconnaissance, infantry support, and rapid response to emerging threats. Their ability to be quickly deployed and repositioned makes them ideal for counterinsurgency operations and fast-paced combat scenarios that are common in the Philippines' security environment.

Moreover, light tanks are equipped with advanced technology that enhances their combat effectiveness. Modern light tanks like the Sabrah are fitted with sophisticated fire control systems, powerful weaponry, and robust armor, providing a balance of firepower, protection, and mobility. This makes them capable of engaging various threats effectively while maintaining the agility needed for the diverse and challenging terrains of the Philippines.

In summary, light tanks offer several advantages over heavy tanks in the Philippines, including better maneuverability in difficult terrain, logistical flexibility, cost-effectiveness, operational versatility, and advanced technological features. These benefits make light tanks a more suitable and strategic choice for the Philippine Armed Forces in addressing their defense needs and ensuring national security.