Extra bunker-buster missiles for Afghan front line
13 Nov 09
An extra 1,300 of the lightweight, shoulder-mounted Javelin guided missiles are being sent to the front line in Afghanistan to top up stocks of the combat-proven weapon, where it is being used extensively by front line forces.
Royal Marines from Fire Support Troop, Charlie Company, 40 Commando, engaging Taliban positions with a mortar and a Javelin medium range anti-tank guided missile
[Picture: LA(Phot) A J Macleod, Crown Copyright/MOD 2009]
Troops in Afghanistan are using Javelin to blow up fortified enemy positions and mortar compounds. The system also provides an excellent 24-hour surveillance, target and acquisition capability for the troops.
The missile identifies targets using thermal-imaging technology to deliver an explosive and precise punch.
It is operated by a crew of two and has a range of up to 4km. The missile can be fired from enclosed spaces, providing enhanced flexibility and protection for its crew.
Javelin's power was demonstrated by troops on Salisbury Plain this week who were training with the weapon.
Sergeant Ross Jones, Royal Marines, from 42 Commando, who was on the exercise, said the weapon was 'awesome' and added:
"For the people that we support, they know that we have got their back and we are their angel on their shoulders watching their every move and this gives them peace of mind when they move on the ground below us.
"If we are going to invest in these missiles it's definitely a good idea - the amount that are being used and fired in theatre is phenomenal. They do save lives and anything that can do that is a good idea."
A Javelin missile is fired at Taliban positions by Royal Marines of 40 Commando
[Picture: LA(Phot) Andy Hibberd, Crown Copyright/MOD 2007]
Speaking from Afghanistan, Captain Warren Marginson, Second-in-Command of B Company, 3rd Battalion The Rifles, said:
"Javelin is an invaluable asset to troops on the ground. Its accuracy and firepower mean we are now able to handle many more situations on the ground ourselves and reduce the need to call in close air support.
"The weapon is versatile and has the ability to deliver the warhead accurately on target. We now have the ability to strike in day or night and in all weather conditions but more importantly Javelin gives us the ability to identify insurgent activity in all conditions."
Announcing the contract award to the company Javelin Joint Venture, Minister for Defence Equipment and Support, Quentin Davies, said:
"The Javelin weapon system gives our troops the battle-winning edge in Afghanistan and the fire-and-forget missile is proving its worth on the front line.
"Topping up the supplies of this very effective weapon will give our Armed Forces the firepower they need to ensure they have the upper hand against the Taliban."
The Javelin weapon system has proved its worth in the field in Afghanistan since it first entered service in July 2005. The command launch unit and missile has a combined weight of 25.6kg. The missile alone weighs 15.5kg.