Abinader unveils new drones, armored vehicles to modernize Dominican Armed Forces

Santo Domingo.- President Luis Abinader delivered new military equipment and upgraded infrastructure at San Isidro Air Base as part of the government’s ongoing modernization of the Dominican Armed Forces.

The new assets include five VTOL (vertical takeoff and landing) drones, a mobile unmanned surveillance system mounted on an all-terrain vehicle, 179 military vehicles, 10 Centauro tactical vehicles built by the Dominican Military Industry (Indom), and the debut of the FURIA VBD-2, a newly assembled armored vehicle designed to reinforce border security.

The government also completed the renovation of seven facilities at the air base, including military housing, a medical dispensary, transportation areas, and other support infrastructure aimed at improving service conditions for military personnel.

During the ceremony, Abinader reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening national defense, citing the security challenges posed by the country’s border with Haiti. He said investments in locally manufactured military equipment, including armored vehicles and drones, enhance operational capabilities while reducing procurement costs.

Defense Minister Lt. Gen. Carlos Antonio Fernández Onofre described the new equipment as part of one of the most significant modernization efforts in the Armed Forces’ recent history, emphasizing improvements in technology, mobility, logistics, and military self-sufficiency.