French missile test promises to rival U.S. and Israeli arsenals
France recently conducted the inaugural test of the Akeron LP anti-tank guided missile from a Tiger helicopter. Here’s what sets apart the European competitor to the renowned Hellfire.
According to OCCAR, the first successful firing of the MAST-F (AKERON LP) missile from a Tiger helicopter occurred at the DGA research centre range in Cazaux on 19th March. The test involved evaluating the launch safety from the helicopter, specifically considering the rotor’s impact.
The AKERON LP missile is an advanced version of the AKERON MP missile, boasting a range of up to 19 kilometres, making it a serious contender to the U.S.-developed AGM-179 JAGM, the successor to the AGM‑114 Hellfire missiles, and also to the Israeli Spike NLOS missiles.
Akeron LP — the French next-generation successor for the worn-out HOTs
The AKERON LP missile is expected to feature a radio communication link instead of a fibre optic cable for connecting the missile to the launcher, as used in the infantry variant. The LP version is anticipated to weigh less than 40 kilograms, and the missile measures 1.8 metres along with the launch container.
Notably, it is a "fire-and-forget" missile, with the option for manual guidance or altering the target mid-flight if required. An advanced guidance head, equipped with a daytime camera and a fourth-generation infrared sensor (known as IIR), which detects the thermal image of targets such as a tank, much like the FGM-148 Javelin, allows for independent target search and identification.
A key difference is the French choice of an uncooled sensor, which theoretically may provide less precise targeting but does not necessitate gas-cooled containers or a larger battery for thermoelectric cooling based on the Peltier effect.
It's noteworthy that work on the AKERON began in 2011, while the Javelin was devised in the 1990s, and its latest version also incorporates an uncooled sensor.
Moreover, the French have included the option for laser beam reflection guidance, enabling it to engage targets with well-camouflaged thermal signatures. This combination allows for the destruction of any type of target, irrespective of conditions. Additionally, the tandem-shaped charge warhead, with a diameter of 15 centimetres, is capable of penetrating over 1 metre of steel armour equivalent, even when protected by reactive armour.
