The army is fighting the MILF and other rebel groups on the cheap. Unable to buy new equipment, and having received little aid from America in the last several decades, the army now has only 18 transport helicopters, two OV-10 reconnaissance/attack aircraft, six MG-520 helicopter gunships and two C-130 air transport. It is hoped that the US will provide more helicopters and transport aircraft, along with pilot training and money to operate the new equipment.
