The research, development, and production of anti-tank missile systems (ATGM) worldwide have been ongoing for over half a century. During this time, due to their ease of use and relatively low cost, ATGMs have become one of the most widely produced and in-demand precision weapons.
For example, the U.S. TOW missile series has produced around 700,000 units worldwide, and the latest upgraded versions of this series are still being produced to this day.
There is much to discuss and analyze regarding anti-tank missile systems. Let’s explore with Thefactsofwar the list of the most effective and formidable anti-tank missile systems in the world today.
Milan ER Anti-Tank Missile by MBDA, France
The Milan anti-tank missile system was developed based on the requirements of the German and French armed forces, while also adhering to NATO’s common standards for weapons of similar purpose.
As a result, the international association “Euromissile” successfully developed a system with exceptional performance, becoming one of the most widely used anti-tank missiles in the world, second only to the U.S. “TOW” ATGM series. Today, the “Milan” ATGM is equipped in the ground forces of 40 countries, including Germany, France, and many other NATO member states.
According to the modernization program of the “Milan” ATGM system, which has been in service since 1974, the following main requirements were set:
- Enhance the warhead’s effectiveness against new advanced armor types.
- Improve the system’s resistance to jamming.
- Ensure the compatibility of the upgraded missile with the launchers and thermal sights without altering the structure.
- Maintain the same firing range as the original version.
As a result, the upgraded missile versions were introduced under the name “Milan-2.” Mass production of these missiles began in 1984, and they were deployed in the armed forces of Germany and France starting in 1985. The Milan ER system not only represents an effective anti-tank weapon solution but also demonstrates the close military technology collaboration between NATO countries.
9M133M Kornet-M Anti-Tank Missile, Russia.
It should be noted that the term ATGM (Anti-Tank Guided Missile) no longer fully reflects the range of tasks that this weapon can perform. Originally designed to destroy tanks, today ATGMs have proven effective in targeting a variety of other objectives, including lightly armored or unarmored vehicles, infantry, fortifications, and enemy infrastructure. Notably, the latest version, Kornet-EM, even has the capability to engage enemy aerial targets.
The Kornet-D version (exported as Kornet-EM) was first introduced at the DEFEXPO-2012 exhibition in India, held from March 29 to April 2, 2012. Prior to that, the system was showcased at the MAKS-2011 international airshow in Moscow. A notable feature of the Kornet-EM is its integration on the Tiger armored vehicle chassis, providing high mobility and flexibility in combat operations.
The Kornet-EM system uses 8 ready-to-fire missiles, with a total missile load of 16. The salvo firing mode, which targets two objectives simultaneously, significantly enhances combat performance and firing speed. This system is capable of launching all types of Kornet-E missiles, providing optimal flexibility in combat operations.
The Kornet-EM meets modern requirements for a next-generation anti-tank system through advanced technical solutions while maintaining a reasonable cost, offering entirely new features, including:
- The “fire-and-forget” principle: Using automatic target observation and tracking technology, completely eliminating human involvement in the guidance process, which increases accuracy five times in real combat conditions.
- Superior range: The Kornet-EM has a target engagement range twice that of the Kornet-E version.
- Reduced operator load: The ability to automatically destroy targets not only alleviates the psychological pressure on the operator but also reduces the technical skill requirements, shortening training time.
The Kornet-EM is a testament to Russia’s remarkable advancements in military technology. With the ability to engage a wide range of targets, from ground to aerial, its superior range and automation features make this system not only an effective anti-tank weapon but also provide a significant strategic advantage on the modern battlefield.
HJ-12 Anti-Tank Missile, China.
According to the manufacturer, the missiles in the HJ-12 system are equipped with an IIR (Imaging Infrared) homing seeker integrated with an uncooled imaging sensor. This design allows the HJ-12 anti-tank system to operate effectively both day and night. Additionally, there are reports of a second missile version, optimized for daytime use and featuring a television seeker.
The guided missile of the HJ-12 has the typical appearance of modern anti-tank weapons:
- The missile has a cylindrical body with a hemispherical transparent nose to support the operation of the seeker.
- The missile is equipped with four X-shaped wings and four similar control fins, which deploy after launch.
Similar to the U.S. Javelin system, the HJ-12 missile is stored and transported in cylindrical tubes. The front and rear of the launch tube are equipped with large soft cushions, helping to protect the missile from impact in case of a fall.
The HJ-12 system can be provided in two versions:
- Infantry version: Includes the launch tube and control unit.
- Vehicle-mounted version: Includes mounting systems and equipment for installation on military vehicles.
The control unit attached to the launch tube contains the necessary components to search for targets and interact with the missile’s electronic system. For convenience, the device is designed with two handles, one of which integrates control buttons for the system.
The operating process of the HJ-12 is as follows:
Search and lock onto the target:
- The operator uses a thermal camera to search for the target.
- The sight is placed on the target, and the tracking mode is activated.
- The missile automatically “memorizes” the target’s image and is ready to launch.
Launch and guidance:
- Upon receiving the command, the missile is launched from the launch tube using a booster motor.
- Then, the main solid-fuel engine is activated, propelling the missile toward the target.
With its advanced design and automatic guidance capabilities, the HJ-12 can be operated easily and efficiently even in harsh combat conditions. The self-tracking target system reduces the burden on the operator and increases accuracy, especially in situations requiring rapid response. The HJ-12 is a clear demonstration of the advancement of Chinese military technology, bringing significant competitiveness in the field of modern anti-tank weapons.
Spike Series Anti-Tank Missiles, Israel
The Spike-ER (Extended Range) missile of the Spike family is a portable anti-tank guided missile with a standard aerodynamic configuration, incorporating stabilizing fins and control surfaces that deploy after launch. It is designed to engage and destroy tanks, armored vehicles, and other targets at extended ranges.
Technical characteristics and structure
Warhead and Engine
- The infrared imaging sensor (IIR) is mounted on a dual mount at the missile’s nose, helping to identify targets even in low light conditions.
- Directly behind the sensor is the electronic system and the fuse, which depend on the tandem-shaped shaped-charge warhead.
- The solid fuel engine is located in the middle of the missile, with the recessed inclined nozzles positioned between the wings, optimizing performance during flight.
- At the rear of the missile is the guidance system and the boost motor, which enhance control capabilities.
Penetration capability
- The tandem warhead has a penetration capability of up to 1000 mm of homogeneous armor, ensuring effectiveness against modern tanks equipped with Explosive Reactive Armor (ERA).
- For the mission of destroying structures, the Spike-ER can use the PBF (Penetration, Blast, and Fragmentation) warhead. This type of warhead is designed to penetrate concrete walls and detonate inside, causing maximum damage to the target.
The Spike-ER missile is equipped with a combined guidance system, which includes:
- Uncooled infrared/TV seeker (IIR): Assists in target identification in all weather conditions.
- Inertial system: Ensures flight path stability during launch.
- Two-way data link: Allows transmission and reception of data from the missile after launch.
This system provides many advanced features:
- “Fire and forget”: The missile automatically tracks the target without the need for operator intervention.
- Post-launch re-targeting: The target can be changed if necessary.
- Command-guided: Supports firing from concealed positions and provides accurate guidance to the most vulnerable parts of the target.
- Complex flight trajectory: Capable of destroying targets that are not visible from a concealed position.
The Spike-ER not only excels in destroying modern tanks but is also designed to destroy fortifications, buildings, and other tactical targets. This versatility makes it one of the most multifunctional anti-tank missile systems available today, effectively handling both direct assault missions and situations requiring long-range operations or concealment. The Spike missile series has proven its practical value on the battlefield, becoming one of the leading solutions for military forces around the world.
Javelin FGM-148 Anti-Tank Missile, United States
The Javelin FGM-148 anti-tank missile is a third-generation system, notable for its “fire and forget” principle. The operator simply locks onto the target and launches the missile, after which the missile automatically tracks and engages the target, allowing the operator to quickly move to another position to avoid counterattack.
Missile firing procedure:
The target engagement process is carried out in the following steps:
- Target identification and locking: The operator uses the guidance system to identify and lock onto the target.
- Approaching the target: Press the button once again to confirm and initiate the tracking process.
- Launching the missile: After aiming and locking the missile’s seeker (GOS), the operator triggers the launch process.
The two attack modes of the Javelin are:
The Javelin missile has two effective attack modes:
- Top attack (default): The missile dives down to the less protected upper part of the tank, where the armor is typically thinner.
- Direct attack: Manually activated, suitable for attacking fortified structures or defensive positions.
Operating procedure
- Upon activation, the boost motor will propel the missile off the launch pad.
- After that, the main engine is activated, allowing the missile to reach the altitude corresponding to the attack mode:
- 50 meters for direct attack.
- 150 meters for top attack.
Effectiveness of destruction
The Javelin missile uses two parts to inflict damage:
- Cumulative warhead: Penetrates the armor of tanks or fortified targets.
- High-explosive warhead: Creates a large explosive force, generating extreme pressure (several dozen atmospheres), sufficient to destroy the crew or nearby soldiers.
The top of the tank, where it is primarily attacked, usually has thinner armor. The effect of the dual explosion not only penetrates the armor but also generates a shockwave that destroys the crew and causes severe internal damage.
The Javelin FGM-148 is one of the most effective and advanced anti-tank systems today. With its precise targeting capability, ease of operation, and high performance in various combat conditions, the Javelin is not only a combat tool but also a symbol of modern U.S. military technology.
Conclusion
Anti-tank guided missiles (ATGM) are among the modern weapon systems that have been developed and widely deployed across the globe. From older systems like the Milan ER from France and the Kornet-M from Russia, to modern solutions like the Javelin FGM-148 from the United States and the Spike-ER from Israel, all demonstrate superior technology and effectiveness on the battlefield. These systems not only destroy tanks but also take on missions to attack targets such as fortifications, light armored vehicles, and even unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
Through this article on Thefactsofwar, we hope to have provided you with a comprehensive overview of the most advanced anti-tank missile systems in the world. These solutions not only demonstrate significant advancements in military technology but also play a crucial role in shaping the dynamics of modern warfare. Be sure to continue following Thefactsofwar to discover more fascinating information about weapons and the history of global warfare!
