Although it deserves the title of battle proven, there are challenges in operating the FGM-148 Javelin anti-tank missile, one of which is the Command Launch Unit (CLU) component on the launcher which is considered to be less ergonomic and heavy (15.9 kg).
To that end, there is an effort in the moderation program to develop the so-called Light Weight Command Launch Unit (LWCLU) on the Javelin missile system.
Quoted from Janes.com (12/10/2022), the Lockheed Martin-Raytheon Javelin Joint Venture (JJV) is preparing to enter low-rate initial production (LRIP) for the new LWCLU Javelin weapon system. Still from the same source, it is said that the test launch was carried out on October 5 last. Furthermore, LWCLU Javelin will enter the qualification program, which is planned to be completed in mid-2023.
The LWCLU for Javelin is estimated to be 35 percent smaller and 50 percent lighter in weight than the Javelin Block 1 CLU. This makes it easier for the shooter to carry, it is even claimed to fit into a standard combat backpack.
In addition, LWCLU can increase the visual range performance in detection, recognition, and identification of high-definition daytime and night cameras by more than twofold, including their ability to operate in inclement weather.
In June 2022, the US Army awarded the JJV the LRIP contract for the LWCLU, and first delivery is expected in 2025. There are 200 LWCLUs ordered at the time of publication, and production is increasing to 600 units per year in full-rate production ( FRP). FRP is targeted to start in 2023.
Meanwhile, the JJV is investing in equipment to run production lines faster and reducing lead times, and employing additional manpower to achieve a maximum output of just under 4,000 FGM-148F variant Javelin missiles per year by 2026. The JJV produces about 2,100 missiles per year. year in October 2022.
The FGM-148 Javelin has proven its performance in Ukraine, where it has effectively been used to destroy Russian armored vehicles. More than 5,000 Javelins have been pledged as part of a US aid package to the war-torn country. The conflict has boosted demand for Javelin, as stockpiles at arms depots have run low.
What makes Javelin so special? The secret lies in the cleverness of the target locking system that is able to send commands to the seeker that locks on the target. After the missile launches, the seeker section on the front of the missile takes over all of the missile's kinematics and directs it to the target, independent of the shooter unless there is an interruption from the shooter.
To lock the target, the shooter just looks at the display in the target lock box / CLU (Command Launch Unit) by placing the target in the middle of the two bracket lines (track box), placing it in such a way that the target meets the edge of the bracket.
During this process, the seeker will attempt to focus the captured image in the CLU, attempt to recognize it and enter an algorithm for vehicle movement relative to the position of the launcher.
Seeker can compensate for vehicles moving up to a speed limit of 150 meters per second or 540 km per hour. It can be said that even a Formula 1 racing car can still be locked by Javelin.
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