ATGM Javelin FGM-148

The Javelin is the most iconic "fire-and-forget" ATGM — a two-stage missile with an IIR seeker that "locks" the target before launch, after which the gunner immediately seeks cover. Two attack modes: direct attack (straight onto the target — for bunkers, buildings) and top attack (the missile climbs to 150 m altitude first and then dives vertically into the top armor of the target). The tandem HEAT warhead defeats ERA + RHA. Range 2.5 km (CLU — original) up to 4.75 km (Javelin LWCLU 2024 firmware update). Production capacity: ~2,100/year in 2024, target 3,960/year (RTX-Lockheed JV expansion program). Unit price: ~USD 175,000–250,000 per round + USD 250,000 per CLU (Command Launch Unit). Effectiveness in Ukraine legendary in the first phase of 2022 (more than 30% of Russian tank losses attributed to Javelin).