Merkava-based AVLBs reach the Philippines
The Philippine Army is in receipt of two AVLBs based on a Merkava Mark IV tank chassis, following a contract with Elbit Systems. (Photo: Philippine Army)
Israel has delivered two bridge-laying vehicles to the Philippines, these based on an Israeli Merkava tank hull.
A pair of new armoured vehicle-launched bridges (AVLB) arrived by ship in Batangas in the Philippines on 12 July, after completing a sea journey from Israel.
It was earlier thought that these tracked AVLBs might use Leopard 2 hulls, but, in a remarkable move, Elbit Systems has used the Merkava Mk IV tank hull as the basis for these Philippine AVLBs.
This is the first known export of Merkava hulls, though Shephard is aware of persistent rumours that Singapore may have covertly procured some Merkava MBTs for its army.
Original specifications for this combat engineering equipment listed by the Philippines
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Land Warfare
-
![General Atomics and Rafael unveil new multi-domain missile]()
General Atomics and Rafael unveil new multi-domain missile
Currently under development, Bullseye has been designed to be a long-range, precision-guided strike capability.
-
![Polaris bets on the Arctic market with over-snow reconnaissance vehicle]()
Polaris bets on the Arctic market with over-snow reconnaissance vehicle
The military 850 Titan 155 is described by the company as an “all-new” over-snow reconnaissance vehicle (OSRV).
-
![Australia inducts new QinetiQ EOD robots and 9mm pistols into service]()
Australia inducts new QinetiQ EOD robots and 9mm pistols into service
The new inductions will add significantly to the ADF’s infantry capabilities, especially during in-combat explosive ordnance disposal situations.
