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The Australian government is eager to enhance its ground forces’ anti-tank capabilities with the potential acquisition of 350 FGM-148F Javelin missiles. They have reached out to the United States, and the Defense Security Cooperation Agency [DSCA] has given its approval. The US Congress is currently reviewing this request, which is likely to undergo amendments.
This deal is estimated to be worth around $100 million, according to DSCA. The agency stated that this proposed sale aligns with the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States. Australia, being a key ally in the Western Pacific, plays a crucial role in maintaining peace and economic stability in the region, the DSCA added.
Over the years, the Australian Army has significantly bolstered its stockpile of FGM-148F Javelin missiles. In recent times, Australia secured a notable deal that included 255 missiles valued at approximately $60 million.
FGM-148F Javelin in Australia
The initial procurement of Javelin systems by Australia began in the early 2000s, with subsequent acquisitions to maintain and upgrade their stockpile. The FGM-148F Javelin has been employed by the Australian Army in various training exercises and operational deployments. One notable example is its use during the Talisman Sabre exercises, a biennial joint military exercise between the Australian Defense Force and the United States military.
The Australian military’s acquisition of FGM-148F Javelin missiles significantly enhances their anti-armor capabilities. The Australian Army regards the Javelin as a versatile and powerful weapon system, effectively engaging and destroying enemy armor, fortifications, and even slow-moving aircraft at considerable ranges. Particularly valued for its fire-and-forget capability, it allows soldiers to engage targets without needing to guide the missile, thereby increasing their safety and operational efficiency.
Australian Army Major General Adam Findlay stated, “The FGM-148F Javelin missile system provides our troops with a significant advantage on the battlefield, offering both precision and lethality.” Lieutenant Colonel Matthew Richardson added, “The Javelin missile’s fire-and-forget capability allows our soldiers to engage targets effectively while minimizing their exposure to enemy fire.” Brigadier General Simon Stuart remarked, “The integration of the Javelin missile into our arsenal represents a significant upgrade in our infantry’s ability to neutralize armored threats swiftly and efficiently.”
About FGM-148F
The FGM-148F missile, commonly known as the Javelin, is a man-portable, fire-and-forget infrared-guided missile system. It is primarily used by infantry to destroy tanks, armored vehicles, and other targets. The Javelin system is highly regarded for its versatility and effectiveness on the battlefield.
The missile itself is approximately 1.1 meters [3.6 feet] in length and has a diameter of 127 millimeters [5 inches]. It weighs around 22.3 kilograms [49 pounds] when fully assembled with the launch tube and battery. The compact size and relatively low weight make it portable and easy to use by individual soldiers.
The propulsion system of the FGM-148F consists of a two-stage solid propellant motor. The first stage, known as the launch motor, propels the missile out of the launch tube to a safe distance from the operator. The second stage, or flight motor, ignites after a brief delay, propelling the missile towards its target at high speed.
The FGM-148F is equipped with a tandem warhead designed to defeat modern armor. The warhead consists of two shaped charges: a precursor charge and a main charge. The precursor charge is designed to detonate any reactive armor on the target, clearing the way for the main charge to penetrate the underlying armor.
How does it work?
When engaging a target, the operator first uses the Command Launch Unit [CLU] to identify and lock onto the target using infrared imaging. Once the target is locked, the missile is launched. The fire-and-forget capability allows the operator to take cover immediately after launch, as the missile will autonomously guide itself to the target.
Upon launch, the missile’s launch motor propels it out of the tube. After a short delay, the flight motor ignites, and the missile begins its flight towards the target. The missile’s guidance system uses infrared homing to track and adjust its flight path, ensuring it remains on course.
As the missile approaches the target, the precursor charge detonates first, neutralizing any reactive armor. This creates a path for the main charge, which then detonates, penetrating the primary armor of the target. The tandem warhead design ensures maximum effectiveness against heavily armored vehicles, including modern main battle tanks.
BULGARIAN MILITARY