PH Army activates 1st Ground-Launched Missile Battalion

The Philippine Army on Tuesday said its Artillery Regiment has launched its 1st Ground-Launched Missile Battalion as part of the military’s modernization.

“Organizational developments are part of the PA’s continuous modernization efforts to strengthen its overall readiness, all aligned with national security policies and strict security protocols,” Philippine Army spokesperson Colonel Louie Dema-ala told GMA News Online in a message.

The 1st Ground-Launched Missile Battalion was activated during a ceremony at the Artillery Regiment headquarters in Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija last October 21.

“The activation of the 1st Ground-Launched Missile Battalion (P) marks a historic step for the Philippine Army, being its first dedicated unit to operate a ground-launched missile system,” the Artillery Regiment said in an earlier statement.

“This milestone underscores the Army’s commitment to enhancing its long-range precision strike capability and strengthening the country’s territorial defense posture,” it added.

Colonel Michael Yves Rayman is the commander of the newly formed battalion.

Rayman vowed to ensure the unit’s operational readiness and proficiency in managing the new missile system. He pointed out the importance of rigorous training and seamless integration of the new capability into the Army’s overall combat doctrine.

As the guest of honor and speaker of the ceremony, Army’s assistant chief of staff for operations Brigadier General Marion Angcao said the activation significantly enhances the military’s ability to deter threats and defend national sovereignty. — Joviland Rita/RSJ, GMA Integrated News