This video provides some insight into the use of armored bulldozers and IFVs in the five-month-long Siege of Marawi, in the Philippines. Although drones and improvised armor for vehicles in tight spots are hallmarks of the current conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, the Philippines' struggle with Abu Sayyaf back in 2017 gave a glimpse of warfare to come.

The video shows armored bulldozers, supported by IFVs, being used to make ingress into enemy-held streets and areas, in scenarios that would not look out of place in Gaza or Avdiivka today. The use of wooden boards to up-armor the vehicles might come as a surprising touch, but that has actually been done since the beginning of mechanized warfare.

There is a certain sense of morbid creativity in how the Philippine soldiers have decorated their rides- at 0:58 we see an IFV decked out in pink handprints and mannequin heads. At 03:52, one is shown bearing "Psalm 91." This is rendered generally as "He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust."

As the captions point out, IFVs and improvised bulldozers were used to clear streets and support infantry operations with cover fire, CASEVAC and transport.

About the Author

Cole Simms

Cole Simms is an Air Guardsman, NASA enthusiast, police officer, and security contractor with particular experience in austere environments. Outside of work, he volunteers as a Stop The Bleed instructor for area schools. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and blends his knowledge and experience to write analysis for Funker530.

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