The Philippine Army (PA) on Thursday received an automated weapon system capable of mounting .50 caliber machine guns from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).

With the turnover of the locally designed Controller-Operated Battle Ready Armament (COBRA), Filipino troops “will no longer be exposed to heavy fire when operating heavy weapons,” PA commander Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete said.

He added that COBRA is not only a product for national defense but also a symbol of the Philippines’ collective pursuit of a self-reliant posture through science, technology and innovation.

The COBRA is an output of the Research & Development implemented by the DOST-Metals Industry Research and Development Center (MIRDC), with which the PA signed an agreement on Nov. 23, 2022 regarding the weapon’s development.

The turnover was held at the headquarters of the PA Armor Division in Camp O’Donnell, Capas, Tarlac.

Following the turnover, a capability demonstration was witnessed by officials from PA, DOST and the Department of National Defense.

In a statement, the PA said the development and subsequent manufacture of COBRA is a testament to its collaborative approach in support of the government’s Self Reliant Defense Posture.

“It also aligns with Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization program which will provide means and resources for soldiers to accomplish every mission effectively and support the military’s active transition to external security operations,” it added. (PNA)