The government, through the Ministry of Defence, handed over 3 types of military weapons, to the Falintil-Defence Forces of Timor-Leste (F-FDTL) to modernise the institution and for other institutional needs.
Minister of Defence, Rear Admiral Donaciano Costa Gomes “Pedro Klamar Fuik,” stated that the weapons purchased and delivered to the military are part of the government’s obligation to invest in the military to modernise it so that F-FDTL can continue to develop and become a military institution that serves the State and people professionally.
“We are handing over modern military weapons of three types, including machine guns, Glock pistols, and ammunition, to modernise the F-FDTL,” he said.
The Minister stated that the military weapons delivered by the government consist of M249 light machine guns, M60E6 machine guns, and ammunition, including live M4 rounds, live belted rounds, live 7.62 x 51 MM rounds, live belted 7.62 MM rounds, live Glock 45 pistol rounds, live Glock 23 pistol rounds, simulated 5.56×45 rounds, and simulated belted 5.56×45 MM rounds.
“These weapons include the M249 light machine gun to complement the combat structure. We are also delivering M60 machine guns, and semi-heavy weapons. The M60 is designed to destroy enemy positions when they attempt to enter our territory, so we can deploy our teams to counter them. Additionally, we are delivering eight (8) Glock pistols along with ammunition,” said the Minister of Defence.
He added that these military weapons were acquired using the General State Budget (OJE), as previously planned in the military program.
“I urge the military to take care of the equipment provided by the government and use it responsibly,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Chief of Staff of F-FDTL, Lieutenant General Domingos Raul “Falur Rate Laek,” said the weapons provided by the government will contribute to the development of F-FDTL as a modern force.
“I urge the military to take care of the equipment provided by the government and use it responsibly so that we can use it for a long time because it is not easy for us to acquire these weapons,” he emphasised.He also expressed his gratitude for the government’s efforts to support the development of F-FDTL into a modern force.
