The Philippine Army’s 6th Field Artillery Battalion (6FAB) has successfully conducted test firing of two 155mm M71 howitzers of the 15th Marine Company (15MC) of 1st Marine Brigade to determine the integrity and reliability of the war materiel which underwent crucial maintenance and repair works.
This exercise, held in Datu Unsay, Maguindanao, was deemed a crucial step in ensuring the operational readiness of newly repaired artillery equipment.
The functional test firing allows the military to assess the performance and accuracy of the howitzers, ensuring that any issues from recent repairs were identified and addressed before the weapons are deployed for future operations.
The FAB said such tests were vital for maintaining the effectiveness of artillery units in combat situations, directly impacting the success of military operations.
"Their collaboration ensured that the test firing was conducted safely and efficiently, with all procedures followed to assess the functionality of the howitzers,” it added.
The test enhances the preparedness of the military’s artillery capabilities, boosting the effectiveness of field artillery units in supporting ground operations, the FAB said.