In articles about anti-tank missile systems (ATGMs), the expressions “first generation”, third generation”, “fire and forget”, “see and shoot” are often found. I will briefly try to explain what, in fact, we are talking about...
As the name suggests, ATGMs are designed to primarily engage armored targets. Although they are also used for other objects. Up to an individual infantryman, if there is a lot of money. ATGMs are capable of quite effectively combating low-flying air targets, such as helicopters.
Photo from Rosinform.ru
Anti-tank missile systems are classified as precision weapons. That is, to a weapon, I quote, “with a probability of hitting the target higher than 0.5.” A little better than when tossing a coin heads and tails)))
The development of anti-tank systems was carried out back in Nazi Germany. Mass production and delivery of anti-tank missile systems to the troops in NATO countries and the USSR was launched already in the late 1950s. And these were...
First generation ATGM
Anti-tank guided missiles of the first generation complexes are controlled at “three points”:
(1) the operator's eye or sight when shooting at a distance of more than a kilometer.
(2) rocket
(3) goal
That is, the operator had to combine these three points manually, controlling the rocket, usually by wire. Until the very moment of hitting the target. Control using various types of joysticks, control handles, joysticks and more. For example, this “joystick” on the 9S415 control device of the Soviet Malyutka-2 ATGM
Needless to say, this required long-term training of operators, their iron nerves and good coordination even in a state of fatigue and in the heat of battle. The requirements for operator candidates were among the highest.
Also, the first generation complexes had disadvantages in the form of low flight speed of missiles, the presence of a large “dead zone” in the initial part of the trajectory - 300-500 m (17-25% of the entire firing range). Attempts to solve all these problems have led to the emergence...
Second generation ATGM
Anti-tank guided missiles of the second generation complexes are controlled at “two points”:
(1) Visor
(2) Purpose
The operator’s task is to keep the sight mark on the target, everything else is up to you automatic system control located on the launcher.
The control equipment, with the help of a coordinator, determines the position of the missile relative to the line of sight of the target and keeps it there, transmitting commands to the missile via wires or radio. The position is determined by the radiation of an infrared lamp/xenon lamp/tracer located at the rear of the missile and directed back towards the launcher.
A special case is such second-generation complexes as the Scandinavian “Bill” or the American “Tou-2” with the BGM-71F missile, which hit the target from above on the flyby:
The control equipment on the installation “guides” the rocket not along the line of sight, but several meters above it. When a missile flies over a tank, the target sensor (for example, on the Bill - magnetic + laser altimeter) gives a command to sequentially detonate two charges placed at an angle to the missile axis
Second-generation systems also include ATGMs that use missiles with a semi-active laser homing head (GOS)
The operator is also forced to hold the mark on the target until it is hit. The device illuminates the target with coded laser radiation, the missile flies towards the reflected signal, like a moth to the light (or like a fly to a smell, as you like).
Among the disadvantages of this method is that the crew of the armored vehicle is practically notified that fire is being fired at them, and the equipment of the optical-electronic protection systems can have time to cover the vehicle with an aerosol (smoke) curtain at the command of the laser irradiation warning sensors.
In addition, such missiles are relatively expensive, since the control equipment is located on the missile, and not on the launcher.
Complexes with laser beam control have similar problems. Although they are considered the most noise-resistant of the second generation ATGMs
Their main difference is that the movement of the missile is controlled using a laser emitter, the beam of which is oriented towards the target at the tail of the attacking missile. Accordingly, the laser radiation receiver is located at the rear of the rocket and is aimed at the launcher, which significantly increases noise immunity.
In order not to notify their victims in advance, some ATGM systems can raise the missile above the line of sight and lower it in front of the target, taking into account the range to the target received from the rangefinder. Which is shown in the second picture. But don’t be confused, in this case the missile hits not from above, but from the front/side/stern.
I will limit myself to the concept for dummies, invented by the Mechanical Engineering Design Bureau (KBM), of the “laser path”, on which the rocket actually supports itself. In this case, the operator is still forced to accompany the target until it is destroyed. However, scientists tried to make their life easier by creating
Generation II+ ATGM
They are not much different from their older brothers. In them, it is possible to track targets not manually, but automatically, using ASC, target tracking equipment. In this case, the operator can only mark the target, and start searching for a new one and defeating it, as was done on the Russian Kornet-D
Such complexes are very close in their capabilities to third-generation complexes. The term " I see, I shoot"However, with everything else, generation II+ complexes have not gotten rid of their main shortcomings. First of all, dangers for the complex and the operator/crew, since the control device must still be in direct visibility of the target until it is hit. Well, in -secondly, associated with the same low fire performance - the ability to hit a maximum of targets in a minimum time.
Designed to solve these problems
Third generation ATGM
Anti-tank guided missiles of the third generation complexes do not require the participation of an operator or launch equipment in flight and therefore belong to the " fire and forget"
The operator's task when using such ATGMs is to detect the target. ensure its capture by the missile control equipment and launch. After which, without waiting to hit the target, either leave the position or prepare to hit a new one. A missile guided by an infrared or radar seeker will fly on its own.
Third-generation anti-tank missile systems are constantly being improved, especially in terms of the capabilities of on-board equipment to capture targets, and the moment is not far off when they will appear
Fourth generation ATGM
Anti-tank guided missiles of fourth-generation systems will not require operator participation at all.
All you need to do is launch a missile into the target area. There artificial intelligence will detect the target, identify it, independently make a decision to kill and carry it out.
In the long term, the equipment of a “swarm” of missiles will rank detected targets by importance and hit them starting from the “first on the list.” At the same time, preventing two or more ATGMs from being directed at one target, as well as redirecting them to more important ones in the event that they were not fired upon due to a failure or the destruction of the previous missile.
For various reasons, we do not have third-generation complexes ready for delivery to the troops or for sale abroad. This is why we lose money and markets. For example, Indian. Israel is now the world leader in this area.
At the same time, second and second plus generation complexes remain in demand, especially in local wars. First of all, due to the relative cheapness of missiles and reliability.
Anti-tank missile systems (ATGM) are one of the most dynamically developing segments of the global arms market. First of all, this is due to the general trend towards maximizing the structural protection of all types of armored combat vehicles in modern armies peace. The armed forces of many countries are making a large-scale transition from second-generation ATGMs (guided in semi-automatic mode) to third-generation systems that implement the fire-and-forget principle. In the latter case, the operator only needs to aim and shoot, then leave the position.
As a result, the market for the most modern anti-tank weapons was actually divided between American and Israeli manufacturers. The achievements of the Russian military-industrial complex (DIC) in this area are represented on the world market almost only by the Kornet generation 2+ ATGM with a laser guidance system developed by the Tula Instrument Design Bureau (KBP). We still don't have a third generation.
Announce the entire list
The basis for the commercial success of the Kornet ATGM is the efficiency-cost ratio compared to complexes armed with missiles with a thermal imaging homing head (GOS), that is, in fact, firing with expensive thermal imagers. The second factor is the good range of the system - 5.5 km. On the other hand, the Kornet, like other domestic anti-tank systems, is constantly criticized for its insufficient capabilities to overcome the dynamic armor of modern foreign main battle tanks.
ATGM "Hermes-A"
Nevertheless, Kornet-E has become the most popular domestic ATGM exported. Its shipments were purchased by 16 countries, including Algeria, India, Syria, Greece, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates and South Korea. The latest deep modification - with a firing range of 10 kilometers - is capable of “working” against both ground and air targets, primarily unmanned vehicles and combat helicopters.
ATGM "Kornet-D"/"Kornet-EM"
In addition to armor-piercing missiles with a cumulative warhead (WU), the ammunition load includes universal ones with high-explosive ones. However, foreign countries quickly lost interest in such “air-ground” versatility. This happened, for example, with the ADATS (Air Defense Anti-Tank System) complex developed by the Swiss company Oerlikon Contraves AG and the American company Martin Marietta. It was adopted only by the armies of Canada and Thailand. The USA, having made a large order, eventually abandoned it. Last year, the Canadians also removed ADATS from service.
ATGM "Metis-M1"
Another KBP development also has good export performance - the second generation complexes with a range of 1.5 kilometers and Metis-M1 (2 kilometers) with a semi-automatic wire guidance system.
At one time, the management of the KBP, despite, as officially announced, the successful completion of development work on anti-tank guided missiles operating according to the “fire-and-forget” scheme, refused to implement this concept in the Kornet complex in order to achieve the longest ranges shooting compared to Western counterparts, using the “see-shoot” principle and a laser beam control system. The emphasis was placed on creating a combined system of anti-tank weapons that implement both of these principles - “fire and forget” and “see and shoot” - with an emphasis on the relative cheapness of anti-tank systems.
ATGM "Chrysanthemum-S"
It was planned to organize anti-tank defense with three complexes of different standard equipment. For this purpose, in the support zone - from the front line of defense to a depth of 15 kilometers towards the enemy - it was planned to place light portable ATGMs with a firing range of up to 2.5 kilometers, self-propelled and portable ATGMs with a range of up to 5.5, and a self-propelled long-range ATGM "Hermes" on BMP-3 chassis with a range of up to 15 kilometers.
The control system of the promising multi-purpose complex "Hermes" is combined. During the initial phase of the flight, the missile of the version under discussion with a range of 15–20 kilometers is controlled by an inertial system. At the final stage - laser semi-active homing of the missile to the target by laser radiation reflected from it, as well as infrared or radar. The complex was developed in three versions: ground, sea and aviation.
At the moment, only the KBP is officially in development latest version- “Hermes-A”. In the future, it is possible to equip Hermes with anti-aircraft missile and gun systems developed by the same KBP. Tula also developed the third generation ATGM "Autonomia" with an infrared homing system of type IIR (Imagine Infra-Red), which was never brought to the level of mass production.
ATGM "Sturm-SM"
The latest development of the Kolomna Mechanical Engineering Design Bureau (KBM) - a modernized version of the second-generation self-propelled ATGM "Sturm" ("Sturm-SM") with the multifunctional "Attack" missile (range - six kilometers) - recently completed state tests. For 24/7 target detection new complex equipped with a surveillance and sighting system with television and thermal imaging channels.
During the Libyan civil war baptism of fire(albeit in the rebel detachments) adopted self-propelled ATGMs developed by Kolomna (range - six kilometers), using a combined guidance system - automatic radar in the millimeter range with missile guidance in a radio beam and semi-automatic with missile guidance in a laser beam.
Main competitor
It is worth noting that the Western trend for self-propelled armored ATGMs is decommissioning and lack of demand. There is still no serial infantry (portable, transportable and self-propelled) ATGM with an IIR infrared guidance system and memory of the target contour, implementing the “fire-and-forget” principle, in the Russian arsenal. And there is serious doubt about the ability and desire of the Russian Ministry of Defense to purchase such expensive systems.
ATGM ADATS
Production exclusively for export is no longer dominant for the Russian defense industry, as it was in previous times. Foreign armies continue to re-equip themselves to this standard. Almost all tenders for the purchase of anti-tank systems come down to competition between the American and Israeli Spike. Nevertheless, there are many foreign customers who cannot purchase Western systems solely for political reasons.
ATGMFGM-148 Javelin
The main portable ATGM in the US Army is the FGM-148 Javelin, jointly produced by Raytheon and Lockheed Martin, adopted in 1996, with a firing range of 2.5 kilometers. This is the world's first serial ATGM with an infrared homing system of type IIR, implementing the “fire and forget” principle. The missile is capable of hitting an armored target both in a straight line and from above. The "soft start" system allows you to shoot from closed premises. The disadvantage of the complex is its high price. The export version costs 125 thousand dollars (80 thousand for its military) and 40 thousand for one missile.
Another disadvantage is design flaws that affect combat use. It takes about 30 seconds to lock on a target, which is very expensive in real combat conditions. A target maneuvering on the battlefield can “lose its sights.” Such a failure often leads to an error in remembering the target outline. American soldiers have repeatedly complained about the extreme inconvenience of carrying the complex.
ATGM BGM-71 TOW
However, in Western armies, the introduction of ATGMs with a type IIR guidance system has long been the main focus. However, the Ratheyon corporation continues mass production of the “old” one with a firing range increased to 4.5 kilometers and guidance via wires or radio links. Missiles with tandem and high-explosive warheads, as well as warheads of the “shock core” type. The latter are equipped with inertial-guided missiles in service Marine Corps USA since 2003 short-range ATGM FGM-172 Predator SRAW with a range of up to 600 meters.
European way
Back in the mid-70s of the twentieth century, France, Great Britain and Germany embarked on a joint program to create a third-generation ATGM TRIGAT with an infrared seeker of type IIR. R&D was carried out by Euromissile Dynamics Group. It was planned that the universal TRIGAT in short, medium and long range versions would replace all anti-tank systems in service with these countries. But despite the fact that the system entered the testing stage in the second half of the 90s, the project eventually collapsed because its participants decided to stop funding.
Only Germany continued to develop the system in the helicopter version of LR-TRIGAT with long-range missiles (up to six kilometers). The Germans ordered the European concern MBDA almost 700 of these missiles (under the name Pars 3 LR) to arm combat Tiger helicopters, however, other customers of these helicopters refused these missiles.
MBDA continues production of the popular second-generation MILAN portable ATGM (in service in 44 countries) in the MILAN-2T/3 and MILANADT-ER versions with a firing range of three kilometers and a very powerful tandem warhead. MBDA also continues production of the second generation NOT complex (purchased by 25 countries), the latest modification is NOT-3 with a firing range of 4.3 kilometers. The French army continues to purchase the Eryx lightweight man-portable anti-tank system with a range of 600 meters.
The Thales group and the Swedish company Saab Bofors Dynamics have developed the RB-57 NLAW lightweight short-range ATGM (600 meters) with an inertial guidance system. The Swedes continue to produce the portable ATGM RBS-56 BILL (range - two kilometers), which at one time became the world's first anti-tank missile system capable of hitting a target from above. The Italian OTO Melara was never able to promote to the market, developed back in the 80s, the MAF complex with a range of three kilometers and a laser guidance system.
High demand for second-generation complexes remains not only due to their mass distribution and low price. The fact is that the latest modifications of many second-generation ATGMs are not only comparable in armor penetration level, but also superior to the next generation systems. A huge role is also played by the trend of arming anti-tank missiles with cheaper high-explosive and thermobaric warheads to destroy bunkers and various types of fortifications, for use in urban battles.
Israeli version
Israel remains the main competitor of the United States in the market for portable and transportable ATGMs. The most successful was the family (Rafael company) - medium (2.5 kilometers), long (four) range and heavy long-range version Dandy (eight kilometers), which is also used to arm UAVs. The weight of the Spike-ER (Dandy) missile in the container is 33 kilograms, the launcher is 55, the standard installation for four missiles is 187.
ATGMMAPATS
All modifications of Spike missiles are equipped with an IIR type infrared homing system, which for four and eight kilometer variants is supplemented by a fiber-optic cable control system. This significantly increases the tactical and technical characteristics of the Spike compared to the Javelin. The principle of combining IR seeker and control via fiber-optic cable is fully implemented only in the Japanese ATGM Type 96 MPMS (Multi-Purpose Missile System). Similar developments in other countries were discontinued due to the high cost of the system.
ATGMNimrod-SR
Spike has been supplied to the Israeli army since 1998. To produce the complex for European customers in 2000, Rafael created in Germany together with German companies, including Rheinmetall, the EuroSpike consortium. Licensed production deployed in Poland, Spain and Singapore.
ATGMSpike
It is in service in Israel and is offered for export at the MAPATS ATGM (range - five kilometers), developed by Israel Military Industries based on the American TOW. Israel Aeronautics Industries Corporation has developed a unique long-range (up to 26 kilometers) self-propelled anti-tank system Nimrod with a laser guidance system.
Second generation replicas
The main Chinese ATGM remains a highly modernized copy of the most popular Soviet anti-tank system “Malyutka” - HJ-73 with a semi-automatic guidance system.
The Chinese copied and American system TOW, creating a transportable second-generation ATGM HJ-8 with a firing range of 3 kilometers (the later modification of the HJ-8E already has a range of four). Pakistan produces it under license under the name Baktar Shikan.
TOW (Toophan-1 and Toophan-2) is also successfully copied in Iran. Based on the latter option, the Tondar ATGM with a laser guidance system was created. The Iranians also made a copy of another old American complex Dragon (Saege). A copy of the Soviet “Malyutka” called Raad is being produced (one of the modifications with a tandem warhead). Since the 90s of the 20th century, it has been produced under license Russian complex"Competition" (Towsan-1).
Most in an original way The Indians did this by adapting the Franco-German MILAN 2 missile to the Konkurs launcher. Both products are produced by Bharat Dynamics Limited under license. India is also developing a third-generation Nag ATGM with an IIR type infrared guidance system, but without much success.
Portable anti-tank missile system second class "Cornet" is designed to defeat modern and promising armored vehicles, equipped with dynamic protection, fortifications, enemy manpower, low-speed air, surface targets at any time of the day, in difficult weather conditions, in the presence of passive and active optical interference.
The Kornet complex was developed at the Instrument Design Bureau, Tula.
The complex can be placed on any carrier, including those with automated ammunition racks; thanks to the low weight of the remote launcher, it can also be used autonomously in a portable version. According to their own tactical and technical characteristics The Kornet complex fully meets the requirements for a system of modern multi-purpose defensive and assault weapons, and allows you to quickly solve tactical problems in the area of responsibility of ground forces units, with a tactical depth towards the enemy of up to 6 km. The originality of the design solutions of this complex, its high manufacturability, effectiveness of combat use, simplicity and reliability in operation contributed to its wide distribution abroad.
For the first time, the export version of the Kornet-E complex was presented in 1994 at an exhibition in Nizhny Novgorod.
In the west, the complex was designated AT-14.
Compound
9M133-1 missile The complex includes:
9M133-1 guided missiles (see diagram) with tandem-cumulative and thermobaric warheads;
launchers: portable 9P163M-1 (see photo) and multi-charged, placed on light carriers (see combined image);
thermal imaging sight;
facilities Maintenance;
educational and training facilities.
The 9M133 rocket (see photo 1, photo 2) is made according to the canard aerodynamic configuration with two rudders located in front, opening from niches forward along the flight. The leading charge of a tandem warhead and elements of an air-dynamic drive of a semi-open design with a frontal air intake are located in the front part of the rocket body. Further, in the middle compartment of the rocket there is a solid fuel jet engine with air intake channels and with a tail arrangement of two oblique nozzles. The main cumulative warhead is located behind the solid propellant rocket engine. In the tail section there are elements of the control system, including a photodetector of laser radiation. Four folding wings made of thin sheets of steel, which open after launch under the influence of their own elastic forces, are placed on the body of the tail section and are located at an angle of 45° relative to the rudders. The ATGM and expulsion propulsion system are placed in a sealed plastic TPK with hinged covers and a handle. The storage time of ATGMs in TPK without verification is up to 10 years.
The powerful tandem cumulative warhead of the 9M133-1 ATGM is capable of hitting all modern and future enemy tanks, including those equipped with mounted or built-in dynamic protection, and also penetrates concrete monoliths and prefabricated reinforced concrete structures 3 - 3.5 m thick. Distinctive feature layout of the 9M133-1 ATGM - placement of the main engine between the leading and main shaped charges, which, on the one hand, protects the main charge from fragments of the leading charge, increases the focal length and, as a result, increases armor penetration, and on the other hand, allows you to have a powerful leading charge , ensuring overcoming mounted and built-in dynamic protection. , providing reliable overcoming of mounted and built-in dynamic protection. The probability of hitting such tanks as M1A2 Abrams, Leclerc, Challenger-2, Leopard-2A5, Merkava Mk.3V with a 9M133 missile of the Kornet-P/T complexes at a firing angle of ±90° is on average 0.70 - 0.80, that is, the cost of destroying each tank is one - two missiles. In addition, a tandem cumulative warhead is capable of piercing concrete monoliths and structures made of prefabricated reinforced concrete with a thickness of at least 3 - 3.5 m. Moreover, the high level of pressure that develops when a cumulative warhead collides with a target, both in the axial and radial directions, leads to crushing of concrete in the areas of the cumulative jet, breaking out the back layer of the barrier and, as a consequence, high barrier action.
The 9M133F (9M133F-1) missile with a thermobaric warhead was created for the Kornet complex high explosive, in terms of weight and size characteristics, completely identical to a missile with a cumulative warhead. Thermobaric warhead has a large radius of damage by the shock wave and high temperature of the explosion products. When such warheads explode, a shock wave that is more extended in space and time than traditional explosives is formed. Such a wave is caused by the sequential involvement of air oxygen in the process of detonation transformations; it penetrates behind obstacles, into trenches, through embrasures, etc., striking manpower, including protected ones. In the zone of detonation transformations of the thermobaric mixture, almost complete combustion of oxygen occurs and a temperature of 800 - 850°C develops. The thermobaric warhead of the 9M133F (9M133F-1) missile with a TNT-equivalent of 10 kg, in its high-explosive and incendiary effects on the target, is not inferior to the standard 152 mm OFS warhead. The need for such a warhead on precision weapons confirmed by the experience of local conflicts. The Kornet ATGM, thanks to the 9M133F (9M113F-1) ATGM, has become a powerful assault weapon, which is capable of effectively destroying fortifications (bunkers, pillboxes, bunkers) within the city, in the mountains, and in the field, and hitting fire enemy assets and manpower located in residential and commercial buildings and structures, behind their fragments, in folds of terrain, trenches and premises, as well as destroy these objects, vehicles and lightly armored equipment, causing damage to them and in open areas, in the presence of flammable materials , fires.
The portable version of the Kornet-E ATGM is mounted on a 9P163M-1 launcher, which consists of a tripod machine with high-precision mechanical drives, a 1P45M-1 sight-guidance device and a missile launching mechanism. The sight-guidance device is periscopic: the device itself is installed in a container under the PU cradle, the rotating eyepiece is at the bottom left. The ATGM is installed on the cradle on top of the launcher and is replaced manually after firing. The height of the firing line can vary widely, and this allows you to fire from different positions (lying, sitting, from a trench or a building window) and adapt to the terrain.
To ensure shooting at night, the portable complex can use thermal imaging (TPV) sights developed by NPO GIPO. The export version of the Kornet-E complex is offered with the 1PN79M Metis-2 thermal imaging sight. The sight consists of an optical-electronic unit with an infrared wavelength receiver, controls and a gas-cylinder cooling system. A nickel-cadmium battery is used as a power source. The detection range of MBT type targets is up to 4000m, recognition range is 2500m, field of view is 2.8°x4.6°. The device operates in the wavelength range 8 - 13 μm, has a total mass of 11 kg, and the dimensions of the optical-electronic unit are 590 x 212 x 200 mm. A cooling system cylinder is attached to the rear of the TPV sight, and the lens is covered with a hinged cover. The sight is attached with right side PU. There is also a lightweight version of this TPV - 1PN79M-1 with a weight of 8.5 kg. For the version of the Kornet-P complex intended for Russian army There is a TPV sight 1PN80 "Kornet-TP", which allows you to fire not only at night, but also when the enemy uses combat smoke. The detection range of a "tank" type target is up to 5000 meters, recognition range is up to 3500 m.
For transportation of the Kornet complex and ease of operation by the combat crew, the PU 9P163M-1 is folded into a compact traveling position, and the thermal imaging sight is placed in the pack device. Launcher weight - 25 kg. It can be delivered to a combat zone by any type of transport. If necessary, using an adapter bracket, the “Cornet” complex with PU 9P163M-1 can be easily installed on any movable carriers.
The Kornet complex implements the principle of direct missile attack into the frontal projection of a target with a semi-automatic control system and missile guidance using a laser beam. The functions of the operator during combat work are reduced to detecting a target through an optical or thermal imaging sight, tracking it, firing a shot and keeping the sight crosshair on the target until it is hit. The launch of the rocket after launch onto the line of sight (the axis of the laser beam) and its further retention on it occur automatically.
The complex provides almost complete noise immunity from active and passive (in the form of combat smoke) optical interference. High protection from enemy active optical interference is achieved due to the fact that the missile's photodetector is facing the firing system. In the presence of combat smoke, the operator almost always observes the target through a thermal imaging sight, and the “see - shoot” principle is ensured by the high energy potential of the laser-beam control channel.
The complex is multi-purpose, i.e. its characteristics do not depend on the type of target signatures in the optical and infrared range of electromagnetic waves. Equipping guided missiles with a thermobaric or high-explosive warhead makes it possible to hit a large class of targets - engineering structures, bunkers, bunkers, machine gun nests, etc. Such capabilities are not available in the ATGW-3/LR long-range complex being developed in the West due to the use of passive homing with target acquisition by the missile seeker at launch due to the low thermal signature of such targets. The cost of 9M133-1 missiles is 3-4 times less than the cost of missiles of the ATGW-3/LR complex, and with the same combat effectiveness and the same amount of money spent, the Kornet complex can hit 3-4 times more targets.
Advantages and application features:
versatility of use, hitting all targets outside the zone of effective enemy return fire;
ensuring combat work in the prone position, kneeling position, standing in a trench, from prepared and unprepared firing positions;
24-hour use, defeating all specified types of targets day and night;
coding of laser radiation allows two launchers to conduct simultaneous cross and parallel firing at two closely located targets;
complete protection from the effects of radiation from optical interference stations such as "Shtora-1" (Russia), Pomals Piano Violin Mk1 (Israel);
possibility of placement on a wide class of various wheeled and tracked vehicles;
salvo firing of two missiles at one target from an automated launcher increases the probability of hitting a target and ensures that active defense systems are overcome;
The principle of missile guidance implemented in the control system in a laser beam allows firing on the move from prepared and unprepared positions (including from light sandy soil, salt marshes, on the sea coast, over the water surface) in the presence of stabilization of the line of sight;
guided missiles do not require maintenance during operation and storage for 10 years.
Educational and training facilities include field and classroom computer simulators. Maintenance tools allow you to check the health of the launcher and thermal imaging sight.
In addition to the portable version based on the Kornet ATGM, the following variants of the complex have been developed:
Single combat module (CMM) "Cleaver" with combined missile and gun armament. The module (see photo) has four Kornet ATGM launchers, a 30-mm 2A72 automatic cannon (firing range 4000m, rate of fire 350-400 rounds per minute). The total weight of the turret is about 1500 kg, including ammunition and missiles. The control system includes a ballistic computer, night vision devices, a laser rangefinder and a stabilization system. Horizontal guidance angle - 360°, vertical - from -10° to +60°. Ammunition - 12 missiles, 8 of them in the automatic loader. The Cleaver MBM is designed to equip a wide range of light-weight combat vehicles such as infantry fighting vehicles, armored personnel carriers, and can be placed on small ships, including coast guard boats, as well as permanently. The combat module is a tower structure located on the shoulder strap, the dimensions of which are similar to the dimensions of the BMP-1 shoulder strap. The mass of the module and small shoulder straps allow the Cleaver to be used as a universal weapon system placed on light-weight combat vehicles, including BMP-1, BMP-2, BTR-80, Pandur, Piranha, Fahd. . "Cleaver" has a sophisticated automated fire control system, which includes a sight stabilized in two planes with sighting-rangefinder, thermal imaging and laser channels (laser sight - guidance device 1K13-2), a ballistic computer with a system of external information sensors, as well as a block stabilization system weapons in two planes. This allows you to shoot guided weapons from a standstill, in motion and afloat, against ground, air and surface targets, surpassing existing ones in firepower combat vehicles, including the modern M2 Bradley infantry fighting vehicle. An important advantage of this development is the ability to install the module on most carriers in customer repair organizations without modifying the transport base.
Automated PU 9P163-2 "Quartet" with four guides and electromechanical drives based on a lightweight carrier. The installation includes: a turret with four guides for missiles, a sight-guidance device 1P45M-1, a thermal imaging sight 1PN79M-1, an electronic module and an operator’s station. The ammunition rack is placed separately. The 9P163-2 launcher is in constant combat readiness and can fire up to four shots without reloading, firing in a “volley” of two missiles in one beam at one target. It is characterized by simplified search and target tracking using electromechanical drives. The guidance range of the 9P163-2 launcher is ±180° horizontally, vertically - from -10° to +15°. The weight of the 9P163-2 launcher with a fire control system is 480 kg. Rate of fire 1-2 rounds/min. Among the chassis already developed by the State Unitary Enterprise KBP for the 9P163-2 “Quartet” launcher are the American Hummer armored car and the French VBL type armored vehicle.
9P162 combat vehicle based on the BMP-3 chassis. BM 9P162 is equipped with an automatic loader, which allows you to automate the process of preparing for combat work and minimize reloading time. The loading mechanism can accommodate up to 12 missiles plus 4 anti-tank missiles in mounts. Two guides allow you to fire two missiles in one beam at one particularly dangerous target. The retractable installation, guided in two planes, includes two guides for suspending transport and launch containers with missiles, on top of which blocks with guidance equipment are placed. Two guides allow you to fire two missiles in one beam at one particularly dangerous target. They provide horizontal guidance angles - 360°, vertically from -15° to +60°. BM 9P162 floating, air transportable. The body of the combat vehicle is made of aluminum armor alloys. The most important projections are reinforced with rolled steel armor in such a way that they represent spaced armor barriers. The weight of BM 9P162 is less than 18 tons. Maximum speed on the highway 72 km/h (on a dirt road - 52 km/h, afloat - 10 km/h). Power reserve - 600 - 650 km. Crew (crew) - 2 people (commander-operator of the complex and driver).
Options have been developed for placing the portable-portable complex "Kornet-P" ("Kornet-E") on open vehicles. In particular, the West self-propelled anti-tank complex was created on the chassis of a UAZ-3151 vehicle. In addition, similar placement of the complex is possible on GAZ-2975 “Tiger”, UAZ-3132 “Gussar”, “Scorpion”, etc.
In addition, the State Unitary Enterprise "Instrument Engineering Design Bureau" has developed a project (see photo) for the modernization of outdated BMP-2, which includes equipping the third generation ATGM combat vehicle "Kornet-E" and installing a combined gunner's sight 1K13-2 (while maintaining the hull and internal layout of the turret) . Calculations of the effectiveness of the modernized BMP-2M groupings in combat, both during autonomous operations and with the support of tanks, show that with an equal probability of completing a combat mission required amount combat vehicles can be reduced by 3.8-4 times. This is achieved due to the higher probability of hitting 9M133-1 ATGM tanks, their larger ammunition load, and effective firing at night. The technical solutions incorporated in the modernization of the fighting compartment determine its advantages over the standard fighting compartment of the BMP-2 in terms of weapon potential by an average of 3-3.5 times. The BMP-2, re-equipped according to this version, reaches the level of combat power of the best modern infantry fighting vehicles, and has a clear superiority in terms of the ability to destroy tanks and other targets with a guided missile.
Performance characteristics:
| Firing range, m - during the day - at night |
100-5500 100-3500 |
| Rocket launch weight, kg | 26 |
| Rocket weight in TPK, kg | 29 |
| Rocket caliber, mm | 152 |
| Rocket length, mm | 1200 |
| Wingspan, mm | 460 |
| Warhead weight, kg | 7 |
| Explosive mass, kg | 4.6 |
| Temperature range for combat use: - in standard version - in the version for hot desert climates |
from -50°С +50°С from -20°С +60°С |
| Application height range, m | from 0 to 4500 |
| Time to transfer from traveling to combat position, min | less than 1 |
| Time to prepare and fire a shot, sec | less than 1 |
| PU reload time, sec | 30 |
| Armor penetration, mm | 1000-1200; ensures penetration of armor of modern and future tanks with reactive armor |
| Combat crew, people | 2 |
| Data for self-propelled version | |
| Stored ammunition | 16 missiles |
| Travel speed, km/h: | |
| maximum on highways | 70 |
| average on the road (probably on a dirt road) | 45 |
| on water | 10 |
| Power reserve: | |
| along the highway | 600 km |
| along the standard road | 12 hours |
| minimum for water | 7 o'clock |
| Calculation, persons | 2 |
The JAGM experimental multi-purpose air-to-ground guided missile is designed to destroy armored targets, patrol ships, artillery systems, missile launchers, radar positions, control and communication centers, fortifications, and infrastructure in enemy settlements and administrative centers. The development of a single unified air-launched missile in the interests of the US Army, Navy and Marine Corps under the Joint Air-to-Ground Missile (JAGM) program has been ongoing since 2007. Two groups of companies are participating in the development of JAGM on a competitive basis, led by Lockheed Martin and Raytheon as lead developers. JAGM is a continuation of the AGM-169 Joint Common Missile (JCM) program, completed in 2007. The US Army initially planned to pay for the development of the missile by both companies, but due to budget constraints, since 2011 it has chosen only one developer - Lockheed Martin. ...
In the new year 2017, the French armed forces intend to implement several new programs related to the re-equipment of combat units. One of these projects concerns the field of anti-tank missile systems. Currently, the French army has several systems of this class in service, including outdated models. This year, the ground forces should receive the first copies of the MMP ATGM, proposed as a replacement for older systems.
The MMP project (Missile Moyenne Portée - “Medium-Range Missile”) has been developed by MBDA Missile Systems since 2009 on an initiative basis. Initially, the goal of the work was to determine common features the appearance of a promising anti-tank complex, but later the project’s objectives were updated. In 2010, the French military department held a competition, as a result of which it purchased an American-made Javelin anti-tank system, considering domestic systems for a similar purpose to be obsolete. ...
During the Second World War, the first anti-tank grenade launchers were created and brought to practical use in several countries around the world. Various weapons of this class used some common ideas, but differed in certain features. One of the most original versions The anti-tank grenade launcher was the PIAT product, created by British gunsmiths. Having noticeable differences from foreign models, such a grenade launcher showed acceptable effectiveness and was of interest to the troops.
The reasons for the appearance of the new model anti-tank grenade launcher were simple. At the initial stage of the Second World War, the British infantry had only two means of combating enemy tanks: the Boys anti-tank rifle and the No. 68 rifle grenade. Such weapons were used quite actively for a long time, but their effectiveness was constantly falling. ...
Just a few years ago, Spain did not have the technical base necessary to create anti-tank missile systems that meet modern requirements. However, the adoption and operation of the Aspide air-to-surface missile from Selenia (Italy) and the Roland missile defense system of the Euromissile association (Germany, France) with its production under license from Santa Barbara (Spain) contributed to the creation of a scientific and technological base that made it possible to start a national development of ATGM. Diagram of Toledo starting motor nozzle; laser beam receiver; low thrust starting engine; tail unit; gyroscope; battery; fuse; shaped charge; lining of cumulative excavation; thrust vector control device; - propulsion engine accelerator fuel; propulsion engine fuel; a two-layer ogive head that activates the fuse. ...
ATGM "Malyutka-2" The anti-tank missile system (ATGM) "Malyutka-2" is a modernized version of the 9K11 "Malyutka" complex and differs from the latter in the use of an improved missile with different types of warheads. Developed at Kolomna Mechanical Engineering Design Bureau. The complex is designed to defeat modern tanks and other armored vehicles, as well as engineering structures such as bunkers and bunkers in the absence and presence of natural or organized infrared interference. Its predecessor - the Malyutka complex - one of the first domestic anti-tank systems, was manufactured for approximately 30 years and is in service in more than 40 countries around the world. Various versions of the complex were and are being produced in Poland, Czechoslovakia, Bulgaria, China, Iran, Taiwan and other countries. Among such copies one can note the ATGM "Susong-Po" (DPRK), "Kun Wu" (Taiwan) and HJ-73 (China). ATGM "Raad" - Iranian version of the 9M14 "Malyutka" ATGM in production since 1961. ...
ATGM AGM-114L Hellfire-Longbow Anti-tank missile system (ATGM) AGM-114L Hellfire-Longbow with an active radar homing head is designed to destroy enemy tank formations and other small targets at any time of the day, in poor visibility conditions and in difficult meteorological conditions. The complex was developed by Rockwell International and Lockheed Martin based on the AGM-114K Hellfire-2 missile as part of the AAWWS (Airbone Adverse Weather Weapon System) program for attack helicopters AH-64D Apache and RAH-66 Comanche. The effectiveness of the Apache helicopter equipped with the Longbow complex has increased significantly due to the ability to use missiles in bad weather, the ability to launch a salvo at a concentration of armored vehicles, and also due to a significant reduction in the time the helicopter spends under enemy fire when aiming missiles. The first fire tests of the AGM-114L Hellfire-Longbow ATGM were carried out in June 1994. ...
ATGM NOT The heavy Franco-German anti-tank missile system (ATGM) "NOT" (Haut subsonique Optiquement teleguide tire d"un Tube) is used to arm combat helicopters and placed on self-propelled chassis. Developed by the Euromissile consortium (MBDA France and LFK) on the basis ATGM HOT and entered service in 1974. The "HOT" complex is designed for arming mobile vehicles (cars, infantry fighting vehicles, helicopters) and for stationary underground installations (strong points, fortified areas).The main features of the "HOT" complex: compactness, the ability to quickly replacement of elements of the complex in case of their failure, automatic loading, high rate of fire, large ammunition capacity of missiles. The ATGM "NOT" is capable of hitting highly mobile targets mounted on vehicles of different classes of armored and unarmored, on platforms, platforms and helicopters, ensures the conduct of combat operations as in offensive and defensive battles, fire at a distance of up to 4000m. ...
ATGM HJ-9 One of the latest developments of the Chinese company "NORINCO" (China North Industries Corporation), is the ATGM HJ-9 ("Hong Jian"-9, according to NATO classification - "Red Arrow-9"), designed to combat the main tanks, armored targets and destruction of engineering structures various types. The all-weather, all-day HJ-9 belongs to the third generation of anti-tank guided missiles adopted by the People's Liberation Army of the People's Republic of China. The development of the HJ-9 ATGM began in the 1980s; the complex was first shown at a military parade among new types of weapons and military equipment in 1999. Compared to its prototype (HJ-8), the new complex has an increased flight range, increased efficiency and flexibility of combat use, a new modern noise-resistant control system, and increased armor penetration. ...
ATGM HJ-73 The Chinese anti-tank missile system HJ-73 (Hong Jian - "Red Arrow") belongs to the first generation of anti-tank guided missiles adopted by the People's Liberation Army of the People's Republic of China (PLA). Unsuccessful attempts to develop their own anti-tank missile systems (ATGM) began in China in the 50s of the last century and lasted for two decades. The situation changed in 1971. after several samples of the Soviet 9K11 Malyutka ATGM fell into the hands of Chinese engineers. The result of copying this system was the first anti-tank missile system HJ-73, which was put into service in 1979. The HJ-73 is operated by the PLA as a portable system, and is also used to equip infantry fighting vehicles, light vehicle chassis and other carriers. Behind long years The HJ-73 ATGM service has been repeatedly upgraded to increase armor penetration and combat effectiveness. ...
Hellfire ATGM AGM-114 "Hellfire" with a laser missile guidance system, was developed taking into account the possibility of its use by various types of aircraft and, mainly, for arming combat helicopters. The development of the first version of the AGM-114A missile was completed by Rockwell International in 1982, and since 1984 the complex has been in service with the US Army and Marine Corps. Based on test results and operational experience, it is characterized as a highly effective anti-tank weapon with high flexibility of use, which can also be successfully used to engage other targets and solve various tactical problems on the battlefield. After the use of the Hellfire ATGM during Operation Desert Storm in 1991, work began on its further modernization. The program was designated HOMS (Hellfire Optimized Missile System), and the upgraded version of the missile was designated AGM-114K "Hellfire-2". ...
EFOGM missile system The EFOGM (Enhanced Fiber Optic Guided Missile) missile system is designed primarily to combat tanks, as well as to destroy air targets (helicopters) flying at extremely low and low altitudes using the camouflage properties of the terrain and other features terrain. Maximum range firing at air and ground targets according to tactical and technical requirements must be at least 10 km. According to reports in the foreign press, two design options for the complex are envisaged: based on the M988 “Hammer” multi-purpose off-road vehicle for light divisions (8 missiles per launcher) and based on a tracked self-propelled chassis jet system MLRS salvo fire (24 missiles per launcher) for “heavy” divisions. Ground forces The United States plans to supply 118 and 285 systems in the first and second versions, respectively, as well as 16,550 missiles. Their cost will be 2.9 billion dollars. ...
At the end of May 1988 The American company Hughes Aircraft signed an agreement with the Spanish consortium Esprodesa to develop, at its own expense, a medium-range anti-tank missile system, which will be a serious competitor to the European wearable medium-range complex AGTW-3MR of the EMDG association. In October 1988 Hughes Aircraft and the Esprodesa consortium, which includes three Spanish firms Ceselsa, Instalaza and Union Explosivos, were to create a new Spanish-American association, the name of which is not yet known, with headquarters in Madrid. The total capital of the joint venture will be $260 million, of which 60% ($160 million) will belong to the Esprodesa consortium and 40% to Hughes Aircraft. The Aries ATGM development project is estimated at $134 million. Hughes Aircraft provides general management of the program, develops a guidance and control system for the missile, and provides technical assistance to its partners. ...
Serial production and deliveries of self-propelled anti-tank missile systems of the 9K123 "Chrysanthemum" family continue. This equipment is capable of carrying several types of guided missiles designed to hit a wide range of targets. In addition, the complex has a number characteristic features, which can significantly increase its combat potential. To date, the troops have already received a certain number of Khrysantema-S ATGMs, and the industry continues to build new combat vehicles.
The development of the Chrysanthemum project began in the mid-eighties. The main task of this project, the creation of which was carried out by specialists from the Mechanical Engineering Design Bureau (Kolomna) under the leadership of S.P. Invincible was the design of a self-propelled missile system capable of destroying various targets, primarily enemy armored vehicles. Soon the main features of the appearance were determined new technology and the composition of the complex was formed. ...
Experts distinguish four generations of ATGMs, which differ fundamentally in their guidance systems. The first generation involves a command control system with manual guidance by wire. The second is distinguished by semi-automatic command guidance via wires/laser beam. The third generation ATGM implements a “fire and forget” guidance scheme with memory of the target contour, which allows the operator to only aim, fire and immediately leave the position. IN soon The fourth generation of ATGMs will be developed, which in its combat characteristics will resemble LM (Loitering Munition) class loitering shells. It will include integrated means of transmitting images from the homing head (GOS) of an anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) to the operator's console, which will significantly improve accuracy.
Despite the fact that the armies of many countries are striving to switch to third-generation ATGMs, there remains a high demand for second-generation systems. The reason is their widespread use in the military and their significantly lower cost. Another factor is the comparability and even superior penetration level of the latest modifications of many second-generation ATGMs in comparison with third-generation systems. And finally, the analysis of the experience of military clashes in urban conditions became a serious factor. Based on it, anti-tank missiles of second-generation complexes are armed with cheaper high-explosive and thermobaric warheads (warheads) for the destruction of bunkers and various fortifications, as well as for use in urban battles.
It is worth noting another Western trend in the development and production of ATGMs. There is virtually no demand for self-propelled systems, and therefore they have been discontinued everywhere. In Russia the situation is different. The latest development of the Kolomna Mechanical Engineering Design Bureau (KBM) - a modernized version of the second-generation self-propelled ATGM "Shturm" ("Shturm-SM") with the multifunctional "Ataka" missile (firing range - six km) completed state tests in 2012. During the civil war in Libya, self-propelled anti-tank systems developed by Kolomna "Chrysanthemum-S" (range - six km) showed excellent performance (at first in government units, but then were captured by rebels). However, this type of ATGM is not the subject of this article.
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