FGM-148 Javelin
Overview
FGM-148 Javelin
US troops firing Javelin anti-tank missile during a training in Estonia.
Source: US Army, Sgt Ben Houtkooper -
© Public domain
United States - Martin Marietta
United States - Lockheed Martin
Over 45.000 missiles
$ 78.000 for a missile in 2002
$ 174.000 for a missile in 2019
Description
Introduction
The FGM-148 Javelin is a modern man portable anti-tank missile system of US origin. It was developed from the mid 1980's to the early 1990's in order to replace the M47 Dragon in US service. The Javelin is a significant step forward in combat effectiveness and crew survivability compared to the older M47 Dragon.
Design
The Javelin is a reusable system centered around the Command Launch Unit (CLU). This portion houses the optical sights and controls. The missiles are carried in a container that also acts as a single use launch tube. The missile is launched at an upward angle since the Javelin is a top attack weapon system. Against bunkers a more direct line of flight is used. The Javelin is a self homing system. The nose of the missile features the automatic infrared guidance system. This allows the operator to immediately seek cover after launch. The Javelin is man portable. The crew of two carry a single CLU and two missiles.
Firepower
The Javelin missile features a tandem HEAT warhead. This is able to penetrate armor equivalent to 600 to 800 mm RHA. Since the Javeline attacks targets from the top it is able to engage all types of vehicle currently in use. Early missiles have a maximum range of 2.5 km. Current generation missiles can be used out to 4.75 km.
Users
The first and main operator of the Javelin is the United States. The Javelin has been exported in large numbers, despite its high costs. Various nations in Europe, the Middle East and Asia have acquired the Javelin. Recently the Javelin was supplied to Ukraine, where is employed against Russian forces.
Details
Media
FGM-148 Javelin
Javelin in use with UK army.
Source: Stuart A Hill AMS
Copyright: Open Government License
FGM-148 Javelin
US troops firing a Javelin missile in 2003.
Source: US Marine Corps, Sgt Mauricio Campino
Copyright: Public domain
FGM-148 Javelin
US troops with FGM-148 Javelin in the launch position.
Source: US Marine Corps, Sgt Mauricio Campino
Copyright: Public domain
FGM-148 Javelin
US troops with FGM-148 Javelin in the launch position.
Source: US Marine Corps, Sgt Mauricio Campino
Copyright: Public domain
FGM-148 Javelin
US troops firing a Javelin missile in 2007.
Source: United States Army
Copyright: Public domain
FGM-148 Javelin
Javelin launcher on tripod in use with UK army.
Source: Stuart A Hill AMS
Copyright: Open Government License
FGM-148 Javelin
Javelin anti-tank missile launched by UK troops during an exercise in 2015.
Source: Steve Dock
Copyright: Open Government License
FGM-148 Javelin
Right side view of FGM-148 Javelin with CLU attached.
Source: US Army, Spc Thomas Duval
Copyright: Public domain
Related articles
M47 Dragon
The Javelin was developed to the replace the Cold War era M47 Dragon in US military service.
Type 01 LMAT
The Japanese Type 01 LMAT has a similar design and operating mode as the FGM-148 Javelin.