Bringing Vietnam War-Era Vehicles Back to Life
In an endeavor both nostalgic and strategic, the Philippines Ministry of Defence is currently embarked on a remarkable mission – the Light Armor System Upgrade (LARSU). This ambitious program involves the refurbishment and modernization of American armored vehicles that once roamed the battlefields of the Vietnam War. At the heart of this venture is the esteemed Indian defense giant, Larsen & Toubro Ltd., serving as the primary contractor for LARSU.
Resurrecting the Past
Larsen & Toubro Ltd. has breathed new life into the iconic Cadillac Gauge V-150 Commando and V-300 armored vehicle fleet by meticulously executing this challenging assignment. The result? A fleet of rejuvenated vehicles, boasting overhauled components across the board. Everything from powertrains to control systems, drive shafts to wheels and tires, electrical systems to suspension, brakes, and fuel systems – all received a much-needed upgrade. The program's ingenuity doesn't stop there; there are even plans to ensure that the turrets remain state-of-the-art.
The Commando's Legacy
At the heart of LARSU lies the formidable Cadillac Gauge V-150 Commando, a vehicle with an illustrious history. Originally designed for the United States Military Police Corps during the Vietnam War, it also goes by the moniker M706 in the US military. Blending the roles of an armored personnel carrier (APC) and a standard armored car, the Commando played a pivotal role in convoy escort missions. These battle-tested vehicles once numbered 185 in service with the Philippine Armed Forces, and now they're set to regain their former glory.
A Family of Warriors: The LAV-300
The Cadillac Gauge LAV-300, previously known as the V-300, belongs to a distinguished lineage of American light armored vehicles. The Philippine Marine Corps is set to receive updated versions of several of these stalwart machines. The LAV-300 comfortably accommodates up to nine passengers in addition to its three-person crew. With an impressive range of 925 kilometers and a top speed of 105 kilometers per hour, these vehicles are ready to serve their nation once more.
L&T's Legacy in the Philippines
This isn't Larsen & Toubro Ltd.'s first rodeo with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). They previously played a crucial role during the third phase of the AFP Modernization Program (AFPMP). In fact, L&T has a history of excellence in the region, having already completed the LARSU upgrade for the Philippine Navy (Marines). This earlier undertaking involved the modernization of the service's V-150 Commando 4×4 armored vehicles.
As the LARSU program continues to breathe new life into these veteran vehicles, it also underscores the enduring importance of preserving history while ensuring modern capability in today's ever-changing strategic landscape. Through this collaborative effort, the Philippines pays homage to its past and fortifies its future.
