US deploys unmanned aircraft to help military in counter-terrorism

September 11, 2017

The United States deployed the Grey Eagle unmanned aircraft  to support the Philippine government’s fight against terrorists in the  southern Philippines.

“The United States deployed the Gray Eagle Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) to Mindanao for additional surveillance in support of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) counter-terrorism efforts,” the US Embassy said Monday.

“Compared to current surveillance platforms used in the region, the Gray Eagle has a longer flight duration which will enable a larger area of reconnaissance and surveillance,” it added.

The embassy noted that “the strong, long-standing military relationship with the Philippines enables the US to respond quickly to the AFP’s needs and to support the AFP’s modernization goals.”

It said “over the past three years the US has provided the Philippines with assistance valued at over Php15 billion, to establish better command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities for the AFP.”

“Recent deliveries include a Raven tactical UAS and two Cessna-208B surveillance aircraft, as well as various munitions and weapons to support urgent defense and counter terrorism needs,” it stated. Robina Asido/DMS