Manila: Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. said the Controller Operated Battle-Ready Armament (COBRA) automated gun mount, developed by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and its partners, will greatly enhance the country's Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP) Program.

According to Philippines News Agency, Teodoro made the comment during the COBRA's turnover ceremonies held at the Armor Division headquarters in Camp O' Donnell, Capas, Tarlac on Thursday, the DND said in a news release on Friday. The defense chief emphasized that COBRA is a significant step forward in implementing the SRDP Program and aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s vision of building a strong domestic defense industry.

Teodoro articulated a strategy centered on strengthening the foundations of research, production capabilities, and institutional support to eventually build a self-sustaining defense industry. His remarks, delivered by DND Undersecretary for Defense Technology Research and Industry Development Rene Diaz, highlighted the importance of such initiatives.

Teodoro also expressed gratitude to the DOST, the Metals Industry Research and Development Center (MIRDC), and the Mechatronics and Robotics Society of the Philippines for their collaborative efforts in developing the new defense capability. He pointed out that the remote-controlled weapon system would boost the Philippine Army's (PA) firepower while enhancing troop safety by enabling engagement from protected positions.

He emphasized that Project COBRA will improve the survivability of soldiers, allowing them to operate from positions of relative safety, thereby reducing their exposure to enemy fire. COBRA is equipped to mount .50 caliber heavy machine guns, enhancing its operational capacity.

Looking to the future, Teodoro expressed hope that the country will continue to leverage advancements in defense, science, and technology to ensure the security and well-being of the Filipino people. The COBRA is a result of research and development efforts implemented by the DOST-MIRDC. The PA and the DOST-MIRDC formalized an agreement regarding COBRA's development on November 23, 2022.