The rhk111 Philippine Defense Updates: Project BUHAWI Specs, Features and more Pictures

Monday, January 18, 2021

Project BUHAWI Specs, Features and more Pictures - Jan. 14, 2021

The PA Commanding General with Project BUHAWI, Photo by the PN

The Philippine Navy (PN) released more Pictures of the Project Building a Universal Mount for Heavy-Barrel Automated Weapon Integration (BUHAWI) during the Visit of the Commanding General of the Philippine Army (PA) to the Naval Sea Systems Command (NSSC) last January 14, 2021.

In one of the Pictures, we get a close look at the System’s Specifications, which are as follows:
- Machine Gun Type: Browning 0.5" HB
- Gross Weight: 317 kg
- Dimensions: 1,313 x 964 x 866 mm
- Ammunition: Up to 200 rounds
- On Mount EO System: Charged Coupled Device (CCD), Forward Looking Infra Red (FLIR), Laser Range Finder (LRF)
- Angular Motion Sensor: Traverse +135 to -135 deg., Elevation +50 to -20 deg.

Its Features were also shown, they are as follows:
- Integrated Electro-Optical (EO) System with Target Tracking and Locking
- Built-in Ballistic Computer
- Operated with 230 VAC with Self-Sustained Power Supply

Based on this, the System doesn't seem to have a Stabilized Platform which would've allowed more accurate firing of the Weapon. However, it is still a major improvement over a Manual System.

For one, the Operator gets to sit behind cover comfortably than standing up out in the open during their watch. The EO System also allows for more effective Night Operations.

And the LRF and Ballistic Computer allows for a more accurate fire than an unassisted firing. I think putting a Stabilized Platform on it would be in their next stage of development.

With the PA briefed about the System, it seems they are interested about the Project also.