Anti-tank missile systems. Russian anti-tank systems

Rocket (ATGM) - a weapon designed primarily to combat enemy armored vehicles. It can also be used to destroy fortified points, fire at low-flying targets and for other tasks.

General information

Guided missiles are the most important part, which also includes an ATGM launcher and guidance systems. The so-called solid fuel is used as an energy source, and the warhead (warhead) is most often equipped with a cumulative charge.

Since they began to equip composite armor and active dynamic protection systems, new anti-tank missiles are also evolving. The single cumulative warhead was replaced by tandem ammunition. As a rule, these are two shaped charges located one after another. When they explode, two are formed in succession with more effective armor penetration. If a single charge "flashes" up to 600 mm, then tandem ones - 1200 mm or more. At the same time, the elements of dynamic protection "extinguish" only the first jet, and the second does not lose its destructive ability.

Also, ATGMs can be equipped with a thermobaric warhead, which creates the effect of a volumetric explosion. When triggered, aerosols are sprayed in the form of a cloud, which then detonate, covering a significant area with a zone of fire.

These types of ammunition include ATGM "Cornet" (RF), "Milan" (France-Germany), "Javelin" (USA), "Spike" (Israel) and others.

Prerequisites for creation

In spite of wide application manual anti-tank grenade launchers(RPG) in World War II, they could not fully provide anti-tank infantry defense. It turned out to be impossible to increase the range of RPGs, because due to the relatively slow speed of ammunition of this type, their range and accuracy did not meet the requirements for effectiveness in combating armored vehicles over 500 meters away. The infantry units required an effective anti-tank weapon capable of hitting tanks at long distances. To solve the problem of accurate long-range shooting, an ATGM was created - an anti-tank guided missile.

History of creation

The first research on the development of high-precision missile munitions began in the 40s of the twentieth century. The Germans achieved a real breakthrough in the development of the latest types of weapons by creating in 1943 the world's first ATGM X-7 Rotkaeppchen (translated as "Little Red Riding Hood"). The history of ATGM anti-tank weapons begins with this model.

With a proposal to create a Rotkaeppchen, BMW turned to the Wehrmacht command in 1941, but the favorable situation for Germany on the fronts was the reason for the refusal. However, already in 1943, the creation of such a rocket still had to be started. The work was led by a doctor who developed a series of aircraft missiles under the general designation "X" for the German Ministry of Aviation.

Characteristics of X-7 Rotkaeppchen

In fact, the X-7 anti-tank missile can be considered as a continuation of the X series, because the main design solutions of this type of missiles were widely used in it. The case had a length of 790 mm, a diameter of 140 mm. The tail unit of the rocket was a stabilizer and two keels mounted on an arcuate rod to exit the control planes from the zone of hot gases of a solid propellant (powder) engine. Both keels were made in the form of washers with deflected plates (trim tabs), which were used as elevators or rudders for ATGMs.

The weapon for its time was revolutionary. To ensure the stability of the rocket in flight, it rotated along its longitudinal axis at a speed of two revolutions per second. With the help of a special delay unit, control signals were applied to the control plane (trim) only when they were in the desired position. In the tail section there was a power plant in the form of a WASAG dual-mode engine. Cumulative warhead overcame 200 mm armor.

The control system included a stabilization unit, a switch, rudder drives, command and receiving units, as well as two cable reels. The control system worked according to the method, which today is referred to as the “three-point method”.

ATGM first generation

After the war, the victorious countries used the achievements of the Germans to own production ATGM. Weapons of this type were recognized as very promising for combating armored vehicles on the front line, and from the mid-50s the first models replenished the arsenals of the countries of the world.

ATGMs of the first generation successfully proved themselves in military conflicts of the 50-70s. Since there is no documentary evidence of the use of the German "Little Red Riding Hood" in combat (although about 300 of them were fired), the first guided missile used in real combat (Egypt, 1956) was the French model Nord SS.10. In the same place, during the Six-Day War of 1967 between Israel and Israel, the Soviet Malyutka ATGMs supplied by the USSR to the Egyptian army proved their effectiveness.

The use of ATGMs: attack

The weapons of the first generation require careful training of the shooter. When aiming a warhead and subsequent remote control, the same principle of three points is used:

• crosshair of the vizier;
• rocket on trajectory;
• hit target.

Having fired, the operator through the optical sight must simultaneously monitor the aiming mark, the projectile tracer and the moving target, and manually issue control commands. They are transmitted aboard the rocket along the wires that follow it. Their use imposes restrictions on the speed of ATGMs: 150-200 m/s.

If the wire breaks with shrapnel in the heat of battle, the projectile becomes uncontrollable. The low flight speed allowed armored vehicles to perform evasive maneuvers (if the distance allowed), and the crew, forced to control the trajectory of the warhead, was vulnerable. However, the probability of hitting is very high - 60-70%.

Second generation: ATGM launch

This weapon differs from the first generation in semi-automatic guidance of the missile at the target. That is, the intermediate task was removed from the operator - to monitor the trajectory of the projectile. His job is to keep the aiming mark on the target, and the "smart equipment" built into the missile itself sends corrective commands. The system operates on the principle of two points.

Also, in some second-generation ATGMs, a new guidance system was used - the transmission of commands via a laser beam. This significantly increases the launch range and allows the use of missiles with a higher flight speed.

Second-generation ATGMs are controlled in various ways:

• by wire (Milan, ERYX);
• via a secure radio link with duplicate frequencies ("Chrysanthemum");
• by laser beam ("Cornet", TRIGAT, "Dehlavia").

The point-to-point mode made it possible to increase the probability of hitting up to 95%, however, in systems with wired control, the speed limit of the warhead remained.

third generation

A number of countries have switched to the production of third-generation ATGMs, the main principle of which is the motto "fire and forget." It is enough for the operator to aim and launch the ammunition, and the “smart” missile with a thermal imaging homing head operating in the infrared range will itself aim at the selected object. Such a system significantly increases the maneuverability and survivability of the crew, and, consequently, affects the effectiveness of the battle.

In fact, these complexes are produced and sold only by the United States and Israel. The American Javelin (FGM-148 Javelin), Predator, Israeli Spike are the most advanced man-portable ATGMs. Information about weapons indicates that most tank models are defenseless in front of them. These systems not only independently aim at armored vehicles, but also hit it in the most vulnerable part - the upper hemisphere.

Advantages and disadvantages

The fire-and-forget principle increases the rate of fire and, accordingly, the mobility of the crew. The performance of the weapon is also improved. The probability of hitting a third-generation ATGM target is theoretically 90%. In practice, it is possible for the enemy to use optical-electronic suppression systems, which reduces the effectiveness of the missile's homing head. In addition, a significant increase in the cost of onboard guidance equipment and equipping the missile with an infrared homing head led to the high cost of a shot. Therefore, at present, only a few countries have adopted third-generation ATGMs.

Russian flagship

In the world arms market, Russia is represented by the Kornet ATGM. Thanks to laser control, it is referred to the “2+” generation (there are no third-generation systems in the Russian Federation). The complex has worthy characteristics regarding the ratio "price / efficiency". If the use of expensive Javelins requires serious justification, then the Kornets, as they say, are not a pity - they can be used more often in any battle modes. Its firing range is quite high: 5.5-10 km. The system can be used in a portable mode, as well as installed on equipment.

There are several modifications:

• ATGM "Kornet-D" - an improved system with a range of 10 km and armor penetration behind dynamic protection of 1300 mm.
• "Kornet-EM" - the latest deep modernization, is capable of shooting down air targets, primarily helicopters and drones.
• Kornet-T and Kornet-T1 are self-propelled launchers.
• "Kornet-E" - export version (ATGM "Kornet E").

The weapons of Tula specialists, although highly rated, are still criticized for their lack of effectiveness against composite and dynamic armor. modern tanks bloc NATO.

Characteristics of modern ATGMs

The main task set before the latest guided missiles is to hit any tank, regardless of the type of armor. In recent years, there has been a mini-arms race, when tank builders and ATGM creators compete. Weapons are becoming more destructive, and armor is more durable.

Given the widespread use of combined protection in combination with dynamic, modern anti-tank missiles are also equipped with additional devices that increase the likelihood of hitting targets. For example, head missiles are equipped with special tips that ensure the detonation of a cumulative munition at an optimal distance, which ensures the formation of an ideal cumulative jet.

The use of missiles with tandem warheads to penetrate the armor of tanks with dynamic and combined protection has become typical. Also, to expand the scope of ATGMs, missiles with thermobaric warheads are being manufactured for them. The 3rd generation anti-tank systems use warheads that rise to a great height when approaching the target and attack it, diving into the roof of the tower and the hull, where there is less armor protection.

For the use of ATGMs in enclosed spaces, soft launch systems (Eryx) are used - missiles are equipped with starting engines that eject it at low speed. After moving away from the operator (launching module), a sustainer engine is turned on for a certain distance, which accelerates the projectile.

Conclusion

Anti-tank systems are effective systems fight against armored vehicles. They can be carried manually, installed both on armored personnel carriers and on civilian vehicles. The 2nd generation ATGMs are being replaced by more advanced homing missiles stuffed with artificial intelligence.

Experts identify four generations of anti-tank systems, which are fundamentally different guidance systems. The first generation assumes a command control system with manual guidance through the wires. The second is distinguished by semi-automatic command guidance by wire / laser beam. The third-generation ATGM implements a fire-and-forget guidance scheme with target contour memorization, which allows the operator to only aim, fire a shot, and immediately leave the position. In the near future, the fourth generation of anti-tank systems will be developed, which, in terms of their combat characteristics, will resemble loitering projectiles of the LM (Loitering Munition) class. It will include means for transmitting an image 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 is still a high demand for second-generation systems. The reason is their wide distribution among the troops and at a much lower cost. Another factor is the comparability and even superiority in terms of penetration of the latest modifications of many second-generation ATGMs in comparison with third-generation systems. And finally, the analysis of the experience of clashes in urban conditions became a serious factor. Based on it, anti-tank missiles of the second generation complexes are armed with cheaper high-explosive and thermobaric warheads (warheads) to destroy 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 anti-tank systems. There is virtually no demand for self-propelled complexes, and therefore they have been removed from production everywhere. In Russia the situation is different. The latest development of the Kolomna Design Bureau of Mechanical Engineering (KBM) - a modernized version of the second-generation Sturm (Shturm-SM) self-propelled ATGM with the Ataka multifunctional missile (firing range - six km) in 2012 completed state tests. During civil war in Libya, self-propelled anti-tank systems of the Kolomna development Khrizantema-S (range - six km) showed themselves excellently (at first in government units, but then were captured by rebels). However, this type of ATGM is not the subject of this article.

Adopted in 1974, the Konkurs ATGM, despite repeated upgrades, by the mid-eighties, no longer met modern requirements for armor penetration and resistance to organized optical interference of the enemy. Therefore, to replace it, in 1988, in the Tula Design Bureau (the lead developer), the development of a new Kornet complex began. For the first time, an export version of the complex - "Kornet-E", was openly presented in 1994, at an exhibition in Nizhny Novgorod.

The complex "Kornet" is supposed to be used as a universal highly mobile defensive and assault fire weapon of units ground forces, to strengthen the anti-tank defense of military formations, as well as in the offensive to suppress a variety of enemy firing points.

In accordance with the TTZ, the battalion-regimental ATGM "Kornet" is designed to destroy modern main battle tanks from any angle, including those equipped with mounted and built-in dynamic protection at ranges exceeding the range of aimed fire of tank guns, to destroy reinforced concrete fortifications, various engineering structures, to destroy extended unarmored and lightly armored targets, enemy fire weapons, low-speed air and surface targets.

By their own performance 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 tasks in the zone of responsibility of ground forces units, with a tactical depth in the direction of the enemy up to 6 km.

Most Western experts believe that the main feature of the "third generation" anti-tank systems is the implementation of the "fire and forget" principle and therefore conditionally refer the Kornet complex to the "second plus generation". The specialists of the Tula KBP, despite the fact that they successfully completed work on guided missiles implementing the “fire-and-forget” principle, refused to implement it in the Kornet complex. They believe that the Kornet ATGM compares favorably with foreign counterparts. First of all, it uses the “see-shoot” principle and a laser-beam control system, which made it possible to achieve large maximum firing ranges, in contrast to the Western concept of building long-range anti-tank systems on the “fire-and-forget” principle, in which ATGMs are equipped with passive homing heads (GOS) on matrices of charge-coupled devices. Completely, the foreign concept remained unrealized for a number of reasons. For example, resolution thermal imaging sight placed on a movable weapon carrier is significantly higher than that of the seeker, so the problem of capturing the target of the seeker at the start remained technically unresolved. The shelling of targets that do not have significant contrast in the far IR wavelength range (bunkers, pillboxes, machine gun nests and other engineering structures) is impossible, especially in conditions of passive optical interference. There are certain problems of scaling the image of the target in the GOS when a missile approaches it. The cost of such a missile is 5 - 7 times higher than the similar value for the ATGM of the Kornet complex.

ATGM "Kornet" is characterized by:

Ease of use that does not require highly qualified service personnel.

Versatility of use, defeating all targets outside the zone of effective enemy return fire;

Combat work in the “lying”, “kneeling”, “standing in a trench” positions, from prepared and unprepared firing positions;

The ability to encode laser radiation, which allows two launchers to simultaneously cross and parallel fire at two targets;

All-day combat work, including in difficult weather conditions.

The possibility of combat work in conditions of organized and unorganized electronic and optical interference (for example, protection from the effects of radiation from optical interference stations of the Shtora-1 type (Russia),Pomals Piano Violin Mk. l (Israel) in contrast to the second generation ATGM TOW , Milan -2 T , Hot -2 T , "Competition", etc., which, under these conditions, have a sharp decrease in efficiency due to the inoperability of the direction-finding channels of missiles);

The block-modular principle of constructing launchers, its low weight and dimensions, the versatility of attachment points, which make it possible to place it on various carriers, including jeeps.

To ensure the flexibility of combat use, the Kornet ATGM was developed as a portable one. Based on this, in order to make it possible to launch missiles not only from combat vehicles of the self-propelled complex, but also from remote launchers, the mass of the TPK with a rocket was limited to 30 kg. However, in general, for weight-dimensional characteristics, "Cornet" is basically a portable complex, suitable for use as a portable. At the same time, taking into account the significant mass of the warhead and the required range of launch ranges, the limitation on the total mass of the ATGM made it impossible to achieve supersonic flight speeds.

The new complex implements the principle of direct attack of the target during front projection with a semi-automatic control and guidance system for a direct laser beam (the so-called "laser path"). A direct laser line (in contrast to pointing along a reflected beam) is insensitive to organized optical interference. In addition, an ATGM controlled by a laser beam, unlike a wired command line, removes restrictions on the range and speed of an ATGM flight, increases the probability of destruction, and allows firing at air targets. The maximum firing range of the Kornet ATGM has increased by 1.5 times compared to the second-generation Konkurs-M ATGM of the same class.

The 9M133 (9M133-1) ATGM of the Kornet complex is equipped with a tandem HEAT warhead capable of hitting the vast majority of modern main battle tanks, incl. with built-in dynamic protection. A distinctive feature of the ATGM layout is the 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 one, increases focal length and, as a result, increases armor penetration, and on the other hand, it allows you to have a powerful leading charge that provides 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" missile 9M133 complexes "Kornet-P / T" at an angle of fire of ± 90 °, is on average 0.70 - 0.80, that is, the cost of hitting each tank is one or two missiles. In addition, a tandem cumulative warhead is capable of penetrating concrete monoliths and precast concrete structures with a thickness of at least 3 - 3.5 m. crushing of concrete in the areas of the cumulative jet, breaking out the back layer of the barrier and, as a result, a high barrier action.

To boost combat capabilities ATGM and ensure its multi-purpose use, the 9M133F (9M133F-1) missile with a high-explosive thermobaric warhead was created for the Kornet complex, according to weight-dimensional characteristics are completely identical to a missile with a cumulative warhead.thermobaric The warhead has a large radius of destruction by a shock wave and a high temperature of the explosion products. During the explosion of such warheads, a shock wave is more extended in space and time than that of traditional explosives. Such a wave is caused by the successive involvement of air oxygen in the process of detonation transformations, it penetrates behind obstacles, into trenches, through embrasures, etc., hitting manpower, including protected ones. In the zone of detonation transformations of the thermobaric mixture, oxygen is almost completely burned out and a temperature of 800 - 850 0 C develops. TNT equivalent 10 kg, in terms of its high-explosive and incendiary effect on the target, it is not inferior to the warheads of regular 152 mm OFS. The need for such a warhead on high-precision weapons is confirmed by the experience of local conflicts. ATGM "Kornet", due to the acquisition of ATGM 9M133F (9M113F-1), became powerful assault weapons, which, both within the city, and in the mountains, and in the field, is capable of effectively destroying fortifications (bunkers, pillboxes, dzos), hit enemy firepower and manpower stationed in residential and utility buildings and structures, behind their fragments, in folds of the terrain, trenches and premises, as well as to destroy these objects, vehicles and lightly armored vehicles, causing fires in them and in open areas, in the presence of flammable materials.

The Kornet ATGM used new technical solutions for the layout of missiles and the designs of launchers (PU), which allowed it to fully comply with the chosen concept. Based on the growth trends in the protection of the main battle tanks, the ATGM of the complex was made in a "howitzer" caliber of 152 mm - larger than that of all domestic second-generation ATGMs. With a large diameter and moderate weight, the rocket was made in a relatively small elongation - 8, which corresponded to the use of a general layout scheme close to that implemented in the 9M119M Invar KUV Reflex-M TUR and the 9M131 ATGM Metis-M1 ATGM.

The rocket complex "Cornet" is built according to the aerodynamic scheme "duck" with a front-mounted two rudders with an electromagnetic drive. Opened from niches forward in flight, aerodynamic rudders are located in the same plane.

• 1 - precharge of a tandem warhead;
• 2 - air-dynamic drive of a semi-open type with a frontal air intake ;
• 3 - aerodynamic rudders;
• 4 - propulsion system;
• 5 - the main charge of the tandem warhead;
• 6 - wings ;
• 7 - control system;

In front of the rocket body there is a leading charge of a tandem warhead and elements of an air-dynamic drive of a semi-open circuit with a frontal air intake. Further, in the middle compartment of the rocket there is a solid propellant jet engine with air intake channels and with a tail arrangement of two oblique nozzle Behind the solid propellant rocket engine is the main cumulative warhead. In the tail section there are elements of the control system, including a photodetector of laser radiation. Four folding wings, which open after launch under the action of their own elastic forces, are placed on the body of the tail section and are located at an angle of 45 degrees relative to the rudders. The subsonic flight speed made it possible to use the spent KBP on the second generation ATGMs, made of flexible thin sheets of steel wings - “dutiks”, which open after launch under the action of their own elastic forces.

ATGM and expelling 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.

MAIN TTX ATGM "KORNET-E" WITH REMOTE PU 9P163M-1 AND ATGM 9M133-1

The rocket of the Kornet-P complex is controlled (“ Kornet-E”) using the sight-guidance device 1P45M (1P45M-1) or using the laser beam channel of the stabilized sight-guidance device 1K13-2.

On the basis of the sight-guidance device 1P45M-1, several variants of the complex were created:

Transportable with PU 9P163M-1 (placement on carriers - using an adapter bracket);

PU 9P163M-1 with one or two guides (placement on the basis of a self-propelled carrier with an automatic loader);

- automated PU 9P163-2 "Quartet" with four guides and electromechanical drives based on a light carrier.

The mobile-portable version of the Kornet ATGM is mounted on the 9P163M-1 launcher. The PU consists of a tripod machine with folding supports, a rotating part on a swivel, a swinging part with a cradle for ATGMs in the TPK, high-precision mechanical drives for lifting and turning mechanisms, an aiming device made in one unit with a laser emitter of the guidance channel (sight-guidance device 1P45M ( 1P45M-1)) and the missile launch mechanism.

The flywheel of the lifting mechanism with a handle is located behind, rotary - on the left.The sight-guidance device is periscopic: the device itself is installed in a container under the launcher cradle, the rotary eyepiece is at the bottom left. The ATGM is installed on the cradle on top of the PU, after the shot it is replaced manually. The height of the line of fire can vary widely, and this allows you to fire from various provisions(lying, sitting, from a trench or building window) and adapt to the terrain.

Also, a design feature of this launcher is easy docking with a thermal imaging sight 1PN79M-1 (1PN80) and its removal.

The operator is usually located in the prone position on the left of the ATGM, the trigger lever is controlled by the left hand. As in other complexes with a semi-automatic control system, the operator's functions are reduced to detecting and identifying a target through an optical or thermal imaging sight, taking it for tracking, launching and holding the aiming mark on the target during the ATGM flight, until it contacts the target. After launch, the rocket is brought to the line of sight (axis of the laser beam) and its deviations from the line of sight are compensated automatically by the complex.

The launcher provides the greatest application flexibility. The Kornet complex with 9P63M-1 launcher, with the help of an adapter bracket, is easily installed on any mobile carriers (vehicles, armored personnel carriers, infantry fighting vehicles), and if necessary, it can be carried by a combat crew of two people and parachuted from the air using standard parachutes. For transportation of the complex and ease of use by the combat crew, the PU 9P163M-1 folds into a compact stowed position, the thermal imaging sight is placed in a pack device.

To ensure shooting at night in a mobile-portable complex, thermal imaging (TPV) sights developed by NPO GIPO can be used. Export version of the complex - " Kornet-E”, is offered with a thermal imaging sight 1PN79M “Metis-2”. The sight consists of an optical-electronic unit with an infrared wave receiver, controls and a gas-balloon cooling system. A nickel-cadmium battery is used as a power source. The detection range of MBT-type targets is up to 4000 m, recognition - 2500 m, field of view - 2.8 x 4.6 degrees. The device operates in the wavelength range of 8 - 13 microns, has a total weight of 11 kg, the dimensions of the optoelectronic unit are 590 x 212 x 200 mm. A cylinder of the cooling system is attached to the back of the TPV sight, the lens is covered with a hinged cover. The sight is attached to the right side of the launcher. There is also a light version of this TPV - 1PN79M-1 with a mass of 8.5 kg.

For the variant of the Kornet-P complex, intended for the 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. Target detection range of tank type up to 5000 meters, recognition range up to 3500 m.

A variant of the Kornet-P self-propelled ATGM on the chassis of the BTR-80 wheeled armored personnel carrier with an ammunition load of 12 missiles in the TPK, 8 of which are in the automatic loader, has also been worked out.

Developed options for the placement of the mobile-portable complex "Kornet-P" (" Kornet-E”) on open vehicles. In particular, a self-propelled anti-tank complex "West" was created on the chassis of the UAZ-3151 car. In addition, such placement of the complex is possible on GAZ-2975 Tiger, UAZ-3132 Gusar, Scorpion, etc.

Another version of the complex "Cornet-P" ("Cornet-E") - automated PU 9P163-2 "Quartet" on light carriers for equipping mobile fire teams capable of moving quickly, delivering fire strikes and changing positions. The installation includes: a turret with four guides for missiles, a sight - a guidance device 1P45M-1, a thermal imaging sight 1PN79M-1, an electronic module and an operator's seat. Ammunition is placed separately. PU 9P163-2 is in constant combat readiness, can fire up to four shots without reloading, firing "volley" with two missiles in one beam at one target. It is characterized by simplified search and target tracking using electromechanical drives. From the chassis for the PU 9P163-2 "Quartet" already worked out by the State Unitary Enterprise KBP - an American armored car " Hummer "and the French type BRM VBL.

MAIN TTX ATGM "KORNET-E" S AUTOMATED PU 9P163-2 "QUARTET"

Another effective option for deploying the Kornet complex is its integration into the sighting systems of infantry fighting vehicles and armored personnel carriers, during their modernization. The laser-beam control channel, placed in the stabilized sight of combat vehicles, significantly increases combat power carrier on which the Kornet ATGM will be installed. On the basis of the 1K13-2 stabilized sight (a modification of the 1K13 sight mounted on the BMP-3 and differing from it in two-plane stabilization), the following versions of this complex have been developed:

- modernized BMP-2 with four 9M133 (9M133-1) or 9M113F (9M133F-1) missiles ready for launch;

Single combat module (OBM) "Cleaver" with a combined missile and cannon armament.

At present, infantry fighting vehicles, such as the Russian-made BMP-1 and BMP-2, which are characterized by sufficient armor protection and a reliable undercarriage, are among the most mass-produced types of ground forces equipment. However, the largest number of such vehicles does not meet modern requirements for combat effectiveness, which is largely determined by the composition of weapons and the fire control system. Therefore, the urgency of the problem of bringing the firepower of these infantry fighting vehicles to the level of the best modern models is obvious. this class, and in some respects - their superiority. The BMP-2 is armed with a 30-mm 2A42 automatic cannon and a mounted ATGM "Konkurs" ("Konkurs-M") of the second generation with a wired communication line, which makes it possible to effectively resist vehicles of a similar purpose and tanks of the second generation (1975 - 1995 release). An analysis of the trends in the development of modern weapons shows that a number of basic characteristics, primarily of a guided projectile, require significant improvement. In addition, the firing range at night should be brought up to the level of aimed fire of tank guns - 2000-2500 m. A serious drawback of the BMP-2 weapon system is the impossibility of firing ATGMs on the move.

In SUE KBP with a minimum of modernization costs and in a short time (while maintaining the hull and the internal layout of the tower) firepower The BMP-2 was brought to the level of the best modern infantry fighting vehicles by equipping it with the Kornet ATGM and installing a combined gunner's sight.

Calculations of the effectiveness of BMP-2M groupings in combat, both with autonomous operations and with the support of tanks, show that with an equal probability of completing a combat mission, the required number of combat vehicles can be reduced by 3.8 - 4 times. This is achieved due to the higher probability of hitting the 9M133 (9M133-1) ATGM tanks, their larger ammunition load, and effective firing at night. The technical solutions incorporated during the modernization of the fighting compartment determine its advantages over the regular fighting compartment of the BMP-2 in terms of armament potential by an average of 3-3.5 times. Re-equipped according to this variant, the BMP-2 in terms of combat power reaches the level of the best modern infantry fighting vehicles, and in terms of the possibility of hitting tanks and other targets with a guided missile, it has a clear superiority. BMP-2M has 4 combat-ready ATGMs in TPK on launchers (two on each side of the turret) and 3 guided missiles inside the vehicle. A single launch, a salvo of two missiles, from a place and immediately is possible.

Another way to significantly enhance the combat power of modernized infantry fighting vehicles and bring them up to the level of the best modern infantry fighting vehicles is the use of a universal single-seat combat module (OBM) "Cleaver" (TKB-799) with combined missile and cannon weapons .. The mass of the module and small shoulder straps make it possible to use " Cleaver" as a universal weapon system, placed on combat vehicles of the light weight category. It is designed to equip a wide range of combat light vehicles weight category type BMP-1, BMP-2, BTR-70, BTR-80, as well asPandur, Piranha , Fahd , can be placed on small ships, including coast guard boats, as well as permanently, in long-term defensive structures.

The combat module is a tower structure located on the shoulder strap, the dimensions of which are similar to those of the BMP-1 shoulder strap. An important advantage of this development is the possibility of installing the module on most carriers in the customer's repair organizations without modifying the transport base.

The turret has four rails with 9M133 (9M133F) guided missiles, a 30mm 2A72 automatic cannon, and a coaxial 7.62mm PKTM machine gun. The total weight of the OBM is about 1500 kg, including ammunition and missiles.

"Cleaver" has a perfect 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 system for stabilizing the weapon unit in two planes. The presence of a two-plane stabilized sight and automated system fire control allows you to fire 9M133 (9M133F) missiles from a place, on the move and afloat, at ground, air and surface targets, surpassing existing combat vehicles in terms of firepower, including the modern BMP M2A3 Bradley.

Taking into account the fact that dozens of armies of the world are currently armed with thousands of BMP-1 units with an outdated weapon system and a significant number of BMP-2s, as well as BTR-80s, their modernization using the Cleaver module seems to be a very promising area of ​​work on improving the efficiency of infantry fighting vehicles.

In addition to the above options for the portable complex "Kornet-P" (" Kornet-E"") created a specialized launcher - fighting machine 9P162 self-propelled ATGM "Kornet-T", based on the chassis of the BMP-3 ("object 699"). Its distinguishing feature is the automatic loader, which makes it possible to automate the process of preparing for combat work and minimize reloading time. In the loading mechanism, up to 12 URs in the TPK can be located plus 4 URs in the TPK in the cradles. The retractable two-plane-guided installation includes two rails for suspension of 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 especially dangerous target. They provide pointing angles horizontally - 360 0 , vertically from -15 0 to +60 0 . 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 are spaced armor barriers. The mass of BM 9P162 is less than 18 tons. Max speed on the highway 72 km / h (on a dirt road - 52 km / h, afloat - 10 km / h). Power reserve - 600 - 650 km. Crew (calculation) - 2 people (commander-operator of the complex and driver).

The developer of the complex - SUE KBP, in addition to missiles of the 9M133 family that implement the "see-shoot" principle, it is planned to introduce new guided missiles into the self-propelled ATGM "Kornet-T" that implement the "fire-and-forget" principle, which will significantly increase the flexibility of its use and combat efficiency.

Highly efficient simulators have been developed for the complexes of the Kornet family. The use of 9P163-1VGM field simulators and classy 9F660-1 simulators makes it possible to reduce the training course for Kornet ATGM operators to 15 hours.
ATGM "KORNET"
ATGM 9K115-2 "Metis-M"

“Baby”, “Bassoon”, “Metis”, “Cornet” and “Chrysanthemum” are not the nicknames of hooligans, but the names of a formidable weapon. The history of domestic anti-tank missile systems (PRTK), which have become the best in the world.

"Baby" - the first in the ranks

9K11 or "Baby" was the first Soviet anti-tank system, developed in 1960 at the Design Bureau of Mechanical Engineering in Kolomna under the leadership of Sergei Pavlovich Invincible. Designed to destroy tanks, bunkers and other protected targets, this ATGM became the first mass-produced anti-tank weapon system in the USSR. This complex (and its modifications) began to be adapted for installation on surface and air vehicles.

In 1963, work began on adapting the complex to the Mi-1U helicopter, and later, at the production transferred to Poland, Mi-2 helicopters in the URP modification were produced, which were armed with four such complexes. The combat capabilities of the complex were first openly discussed after the 252nd was almost completely lost from the fire of anti-tank systems on October 6, 1973. tank division IDF during the so-called "Doomsday War". After such a successful performance, the complex began to be produced by almost all the allied countries of the USSR: Bulgaria, Iran, Poland, Czechoslovakia, China and Taiwan.

Light sight "Bassoon"

9K111 or "Bassoon", despite the similarity in name with a light wind instrument, is an even more formidable weapon. Having developed this complex in 1970, the Tula Instrument Design Bureau made an incredible breakthrough in the development of anti-tank missile systems.

A former employee of the Tula Instrument Design Bureau, Sergei Smirnov, in an interview with the Zvezda TV channel, explained why the Fagot turned out to be so successful:

“The main plus of the complex, first of all, is that it is universal. 9K111 can use completely different missiles from its launch platform - from Factoria to Konkurs and Konkurs-M. This is about the first innovation. Regarding the second - in the complex, for the first time among domestic ones, semi-automatic guidance was used - this is when the operator directs the complex to the target, and the missile itself "builds" the aiming line. The third important advantage is that only two people carry the complex - and this is important. Less calculation, lower probability of noticing it and, accordingly, suppressing it with fire or completely destroying it.

Only officially, the 9K111 complex was or is still in service with countries such as Bulgaria, Hungary, India, North Korea, Libya, Nicaragua, Poland, Romania, Peru, Syria, Vietnam, Afghanistan. Just like its predecessors, Fagot can be mounted on a mobile chassis based on military equipment, thereby increasing the firepower of an entire unit.

"Metis" will gnaw through any bunker

"One hundred and fifteenth", as the developers themselves called it, or 9K115-2 "Metis-M" was developed in the early 90s. The creation of the complex was carried out in the most difficult years for the country, but, despite the difficult economic and political situation, in 1992 the Metis-M complex, developed on the basis of an earlier version of 9K115, was put into service. The Tula gunsmiths who developed and built this complex laid a unique feature in it - from the very beginning, from the drawing board to the embodiment in metal, this complex was calculated as a means of combating promising types of tank armor. The new tandem cumulative part of the complex's missile is capable of penetrating almost any tank known to the world, including tanks with mounted and built-in dynamic protection. However, in addition to tanks, Metis is able to turn around a serious, protected object.

Sergey Smirnov, a former employee of the Tula Instrument Design Bureau, explained the main feature of the complex in an interview with the Zvezda TV channel:

“The whole trick is that when breaking through, say, concrete - the main material for the construction of any bunker or bunker, a high level of pressure arises, which, in turn, leads to rapid grinding of concrete, and speaking plain language- it practically turns into dust in those places where the cumulative jet passes, and when the ammunition breaks through reverse side object, then there you can already detect a high action behind the barrier. That is, not only the integrity of the object itself is violated, but also the personnel of the enemy who are in it die. Regarding the thickness of concrete up to three meters, I can safely say that the enemy has no chance. Especially if the shot was fired by an operator who is somewhere in the BMP or BMD and can fire with high accuracy, ”the expert said.

Universal "Cornet"

Introduced in 1994 in Nizhny Novgorod, the Kornet ATGM blew up the then military-analytical community on both sides of the ocean. The Tula design bureau managed to do something unprecedented - to create an anti-tank complex that is actually ideal for combat, and any fighter can be trained to work with it in less than a day. In the Kornet, the Tula craftsmen were able to implement virtually complete protection against jamming - active and passive, turning it into a real tank killer. As in the case of previous ATGMs, the Cornet contains the genes of a universal fighter: an installation with a different number of launch containers can be mounted on an infantry fighting vehicle, infantry fighting vehicle, and even masses of military equipment. On the basis of this anti-tank system in Tula, they even developed their own universal turret module "Kleaver", which, if necessary, can be easily mounted even on the BTR-80, BMP, boat and guard. In "Cleaver", to the use of their Kornet complex, the Tula people also added cannon armament in the face of a 30-mm 2A72 cannon with a firing range of up to 4000 meters, turning the complex into a means of destruction with enormous firepower. Another advantage of the Kornet is that the missiles of the complex, subject to storage conditions and the implementation of security measures, can easily wait in the wings for 10 years.

More recently, on the basis of the Tiger armored car, a universal complex was presented, consisting of the vehicle itself and the Kornet-M ATGM, a modernized version of the 9K135 complex, located inside the armored hull. The complex mounted inside the "Tiger" can destroy 16 enemy tanks, that is, it is able to effectively fight an entire tank company at once, and eight of these vehicles, having 16 guided missiles each, can replace an artillery battalion in terms of their effectiveness anti-tank guns MT-12.

"Chrysanthemum" can do everything

9K123 "Chrysanthemum", developed by Sergei Nepobedimy, went through a very difficult path from the drawing board and completely new principles of guidance and use, and reached mass production with many changes. For this purpose, anti-tank systems for the first time in the world have developed a special all-weather radar system for detecting and tracking targets with the ability to control the missile in the process of targeting.

The new radar system provided the complex with work in absolutely any weather conditions, day, night, and in any situation on the battlefield - be it smoke from fires or just thick fog. The complex, in the spirit of the new time, was given the opportunity not to perceive the enemy's or natural interference. The "Chrysanthemum" of the Kolomna Instrument Design Bureau is a truly universal weapon. It can be used on tank vehicles with the ability to automatically aim at a target via a radio channel, and in the presence of a second semi-automatic control channel, fire at two targets at once. Due to the short flight time and powerful ammunition, a platoon of three Chrysanthemums, which has at its disposal missiles with an over-caliber tandem-cumulative warhead, can repel an attack by a tank company without exposing itself to practically any danger.

What do they have?

American engineers have created a very ambitious project called BGM-71 TOW. TOW is a universal ATGM that can be mounted both on a stationary position and on the chassis of a wheeled or tracked vehicle. In terms of control, the ATGM adopted in the 70s is relatively similar to domestic ones: semi-automatic command, which is carried out by the operator. The missile of the TOW complex is controlled, as is the case with some domestic anti-tank systems by wire, and only in latest modifications- by radio. However, with all the similar features, American counterparts are significantly more expensive both in operation and in production. On average, the price of a TOW anti-tank system fluctuates around $60,000 - an expensive thing even for rich countries.

Andrey Kolesnikov, an expert in the field of artillery and anti-tank systems, for a long time who taught at the Yekaterinburg Higher Artillery Command School, in an interview with the Zvezda TV channel, explained the point regarding the cost of domestic and foreign anti-tank systems:

“I don’t see anything surprising in the price of the American complex. It's always been that way. From their side - more expensive and promoted, from our side - cheaper and more reliable. Everything, as always, was known in battle. In my memory, there were three cases when, in communication with different people, I heard stories about the unreliability of this particular complex. The first time I heard about failures during the Gulf War in 1991, then I heard about failures in Iraq in 2003, and the third case of equipment failures, mass ones, happened in Afghanistan at the end of 2010, when they fired at the Taliban in the mountains. For 60 thousand dollars, death is too expensive. It's better to take ours. And five times cheaper and reliability is always on top, ”the expert said.

Russian complexes, unlike foreign ones, have always been made and are being made with an emphasis on minimal training. Suffice it to cite one curious fact: shooting from the Kornet anti-tank system, which was discussed a little higher, a soldier can be trained in 12-14 hours, with a detailed study of the design and principles of operation. All samples of Russian-made anti-tank systems, which are cheaper to manufacture and maintain, have already found their customers around the world, including in the Russian army itself, and not one of the operating countries for long years Haven't sent any complaints to the manufacturer yet. And that speaks volumes about quality and attractiveness. Russian weapons more than any advertising booklets.

ATGMs are anti-tank missile systems, which today represent one of the most dynamically developing segments of the global arms market. This is due to the high efficiency of these complexes. Modern anti-tank systems are much cheaper than tanks, while being able to effectively deal with this main strike weapon of the ground forces. The global ATGM market is also being spurred on by the general trend towards maximizing the structural protection of all types of tanks and infantry fighting vehicles in modern armies.

Currently, the armies of many countries are actively moving from ATGMs belonging to the 2nd generation (semi-automatic targeting) to third-generation systems, which are built on the basis of the “fire and forget” principle. In the latter case, the operator of this complex can only aim and launch a rocket, then change position. As a result, the market for modern anti-tank systems was actually divided between American and Israeli defense companies. According to the Western classification, the Russian leader in sales of the Kornet anti-tank systems belongs to the 2+ generation anti-tank systems.

It is customary to refer to the third generation of anti-tank systems, which in practice implement the “fire and forget” principle. To implement this principle, GOS are used - homing heads, which are placed on board anti-tank guided missiles - ATGMs. When the ATGM is launched, the operator of the complex finds the target, makes sure that the GOS has captured the target and launches. After that, the flight of the rocket takes place completely offline without communication with the launcher, the rocket flies according to the commands received from the seeker. The advantage of such complexes is called: reducing the vulnerability of the calculation and the complex (since they are less under enemy fire), especially when used from combat helicopters; increase in noise immunity (only 1 channel "GOS-target" is used).

The first production ATGM of the 3rd generation American FGM-148 Javelin

Given the dynamic nature modern fighting, it would be advisable to keep in the ammunition of helicopters and self-propelled anti-tank systems missiles related to both the 2nd and 3rd generation. At the same time, in the ideal case, the third-generation PUTR should be unified to the maximum with the modification of the second-generation missile. Regarding Russia, it can be noted that as a result of perestroika and subsequent market reforms, the period of the collapse of the military-industrial complex, lack of funding and subsequent stabilization in Russia, a full-fledged third-generation ATGM was never put into service.

At the same time, the Tula Design Bureau has its own view on this problem. At present, most Western experts consider the implementation of the “fire-and-forget” principle to be the main feature by which ATGM can be attributed to the 3rd generation, therefore the Russian Kornet ATGM conventionally refers to the “2+” generation complexes. At the same time, the specialists of the Tula Design Bureau, despite the fact that they quite successfully completed work on guided missiles, decided to abandon them in the Kornet complex and believe that it compares favorably with foreign analogues on the market.

ATGM "Kornet"

The "Kornet" complex implements the "see-shoot" principle and a laser-beam control system, which allows the ATGM to achieve a large maximum firing range in comparison with Western ATGMs built on the "fire-and-forget" principle. There are other advantages, for example, the resolution of a thermal imaging sight mounted on a mobile weapon carrier will be significantly higher than that of the seeker, for this reason the problem of capturing the target of the seeker at the start is still very serious. In addition, firing at targets that do not have a significant contrast in the far IR wavelength range (such targets include pillboxes, bunkers, machine-gun points and other structures) with missiles with a seeker is simply impossible, especially if the enemy sets up passive optical interference. There are also certain problems associated with scaling the image of the target in the GOS during the approach of the missile, and the cost of such ATGMs is 5-7 times higher than the cost of missiles of a similar purpose for the Kornet.

It was the criterion "efficiency-cost" that became the basis for the commercial success of the Kornet ATGM in the world. It is several times cheaper than the 3rd generation complexes, which, figuratively speaking, fire at the target with expensive thermal imagers. The second most important criterion is a good launch range - up to 5.5 km. Along with this, the Kornet ATGM, like a number of other domestic anti-tank systems, is subject to constant criticism due to the insufficient ability to overcome dynamic protection on modern foreign MBTs.

Despite this, "Kornet-E" is the most successful Russian ATGM, which is exported. Parts of this complex have already been purchased by 16 countries of the world, including Algeria, Greece, India, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, Syria, and South Korea. The latest deep modernization of the anti-tank systems called "Kornet-EM" has a firing range of up to 10 km, which is beyond the reach of foreign analogues. At the same time, this complex is able to fire both at ground and air targets (such as helicopters and UAVs).

ATGM "Shturm-S"

Another Russian development of the 2nd generation "Metis-M" with a firing range of 1.5 km, as well as "Metis-M1" (2 km) with a semi-automatic wire guidance system, also has good export performance.

At one time in Russia, a bet was made on the development of a combined system of anti-tank weapons, in which both the “see-shoot” and “fire-forget” principles would be implemented - with the main emphasis on the relatively low cost of anti-tank systems. It was assumed that the anti-tank defense will be represented by 3 complexes of different staffing. In the defense zone from the front line up to 15 km. deep into the enemy defenses, it was planned to use light portable anti-tank systems with a firing range of up to 2.5 km, portable and self-propelled anti-tank systems with a firing range of up to 5.5 km and long-range self-propelled anti-tank systems "Hermes" placed on the BMP-3 chassis and capable of hitting targets at a distance of up to 15 km.

The control system of the promising multi-purpose ATGM "Hermes" is combined. In the initial phase of the flight, the ATGM is controlled by an inertial system. In the final phase of the flight, semi-active laser homing of the missile at the target is used by the laser radiation reflected from the target, as well as radar or infrared homing. This complex was developed in 3 main versions: land, aviation and sea. Currently, officially, work is being carried out only on the aviation version of the complex - Hermes-A. In the future, the Pantsir-S1 air defense missile system, developed by the same Design Bureau of Instrument Engineering (Tula), can also be equipped with this complex. At one time, the third-generation Avtonomiya ATGM with an infrared homing system was also created in Tula, but it was never brought to the level of mass production.

ATGM "Chrysanthemum-S"

It is worth noting the fact that the Western trend regarding armored self-propelled anti-tank systems is their removal from service and low demand. At the same time, there is no serial infantry (portable, portable or self-propelled) ATGM with an infrared homing system at the target - IIR and memory contours of the target, which would implement the "fire and forget" principle in service with the Russian army. And there are serious doubts about the desire and ability of the RF Ministry of Defense to acquire such expensive systems.

At present, the production of products exclusively for export is no longer the main one for the domestic defense industry, as it was quite recently. At the same time, almost all foreign armies are being rearmed with 3rd generation systems, and all tenders often come down to rivalry between the Israeli Spike ATGM and the American Javelin ATGM. Despite this, a large number of foreign customers remain in the world who cannot purchase these complexes, for example, for political reasons, Russia can be calm for such sales markets.

Sources of information:
http://vpk-news.ru/articles/13974
http://btvt.narod.ru/4/kornet.htm
http://www.xliby.ru/transport_i_aviacija/tehnika_i_vooruzhenie_2000_10/p5.php