View source for FGM-148 Javelin

{{Short description|American-made portable fire-and-forget anti-tank missile}}
{{for|the British surface-to-air missile|Javelin (surface-to-air missile)}}
{{Lead too short|date=June 2022}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=March 2023}}
{{Infobox weapon
| name               = FGM-148 Javelin
| image              = Javelin with checkout equipment.jpg
| image_size         = 300
| caption            = An assembled FGM-148 Javelin launcher
| origin             = United States
| type               = [[Anti-tank missile]]<br>[[Surface-to-surface missile]]<br>[[Surface-to-air missile]]
<!-- Type selection -->| is_ranged          = yes
| is_explosive       = yes
| is_missile         = yes
| is_UK              = no
<!-- Service history -->| service            = 1996–present
| used_by            = See ''[[#Operators|Operators]]''
| wars               = {{Plain list|
* [[War in Afghanistan (2001–2021)|War in Afghanistan]]<ref name="Javelin Afghanistan"/>
* [[Iraq War]]<ref name="Iraq Javelin Aces">{{cite web |last=Linehan |first=Adam |date=2 June 2016 |title=Unsung Heroes: The 'Javelin Aces' Who Laid Waste To An Iraqi Armored Unit |url=https://taskandpurpose.com/unsung-heroes/unsung-heroes-javelin-aces-laid-waste-iraqi-armored-unit/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210615190058/https://taskandpurpose.com/unsung-heroes/unsung-heroes-javelin-aces-laid-waste-iraqi-armored-unit/ |archive-date=15 June 2021 |access-date=8 March 2022 |website=[[Task & Purpose]] |publisher=North Equity LLC |publication-place=New York}}</ref>
* [[Syrian Civil War]]<ref>{{cite web |last= Lagneau |first= Laurent |date=15 November 2016 |title=La bataille de Raqqa, en français dans le texte |trans-title=The battle of Raqqa, in French in the text |url=http://www.opex360.com/2016/11/15/la-bataille-de-raqqa-en-francais-dans-le-texte/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180830142251/http://www.opex360.com/2016/11/15/la-bataille-de-raqqa-en-francais-dans-le-texte/ |archive-date=30 August 2018 |access-date=31 August 2018 |website=opex360.com |publisher=Zone militaire |language=fr}}</ref>
* [[Second Libyan Civil War]]<ref name="Libya"/>
* [[Russo-Ukrainian War]]<ref>{{cite web |last=Schogol |first=Jeff |date=7 March 2022 |title=The US and NATO have reportedly shipped 17,000 anti-tank weapons to Ukraine |url=https://taskandpurpose.com/analysis/ukraine-javelin-stinger-missiles-russia/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220307181909/https://taskandpurpose.com/analysis/ukraine-javelin-stinger-missiles-russia/ |archive-date=7 March 2022 |access-date=7 March 2022 |website=[[Task & Purpose]] |publisher=North Equity LLC |publication-place=New York}}</ref>}}
<!-- Production history -->| designer           = [[Texas Instruments]] & [[Martin Marietta]], now [[Raytheon Technologies]] & [[Lockheed Martin]]
| design_date        = June 1989
| manufacturer       = Raytheon & Lockheed Martin
| unit_cost          = US$216,717 (G-model missile only, FY2021)<ref name=Department>{{cite web |date=February 2020 |title=Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 Budget Estimates: Justification Book of Missile Procurement, Army |url=https://www.asafm.army.mil/Portals/72/Documents/BudgetMaterial/2021/Base%20Budget/Procurement/MSLS_FY_2021_PB_Missile_Procurement_Army.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220223151300/https://www.asafm.army.mil/Portals/72/Documents/BudgetMaterial/2021/Base%20Budget/Procurement/MSLS_FY_2021_PB_Missile_Procurement_Army.pdf |archive-date=23 February 2022 |archive-format=PDF |access-date=25 February 2022 |publisher=[[United States Department of the Army]] |location=Virginia}} Page 66:"$165.355 million supports the production of 763 missiles and the non-recurring expenses for the G-model production cut-in"</ref><br>US$240,000 (missile only, export cost, FY2019)<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.thedefensepost.com/2019/10/03/us-approves-ukraine-javelin-anti-tank-missile-sale/|title=US approves Ukraine's purchase of 150 Javelin anti-tank missiles|date=3 October 2019}}</ref><br>US$249,700 (Lightweight CLU only, FY2021)<ref name=Department/>
| production_date    = 1996–present
| number             = 50,000 missiles (12,000 CLUs)<ref name="lockheed30jan19">{{cite web |date=30 January 2019 |title=Raytheon/Lockheed Martin Javelin Joint Venture Awarded Contract For 2,100 F-Model Missiles, Marking Initial Full-Rate Production |url=https://news.lockheedmartin.com/2019-01-30-Raytheon-Lockheed-Martin-Javelin-Joint-Venture-Awarded-Contract-for-2-100-F-Model-Missiles-Marking-Initial-Full-Rate-Production |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190202095512/https://news.lockheedmartin.com/2019-01-30-Raytheon-Lockheed-Martin-Javelin-Joint-Venture-Awarded-Contract-for-2-100-F-Model-Missiles-Marking-Initial-Full-Rate-Production |archive-date=2 February 2019 |access-date=25 February 2022 |publisher=[[Lockheed Martin]] |publication-place=Orlando, Florida}}</ref><ref name="LM50K"/>
| variants           = See: {{section link||Variants}}
<!-- General specifications -->| spec_label         = 
| weight             = {{ubli
 | {{convert|22.3|kg|lb|abbr=on}}, ready to fire
 | {{convert|6.4|kg|lb|abbr=on}}, detachable CLU<ref>{{cite web |title=Javelin (Warhead) |url=http://www.americanordnance.com/pdf/Javelin.pdf |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130926090733/http://www.americanordnance.com/pdf/Javelin.pdf |archive-date=26 September 2013 |archive-format=PDF |access-date=25 February 2022 |publisher=American Ordnance LLC |location=Middletown, Iowa}}</ref><ref name="army-technology.com"/> 
 | {{convert|15.9|kg|lb|abbr=on}}, missile in launch tube
}}
| length             = {{convert|1.1|m|in|abbr=on}} (missile)
| part_length        = {{convert|1.2|m|in|abbr=on}}
| width              = 
| height             = 
| diameter           = {{convert|127|mm|in|abbr=on}}
| crew               = 1 or 2
<!-- Ranged weapon specifications -->| caliber            = {{convert|127|mm|in|abbr=on}}
| velocity           = 
| range              = {{ubl|Original CLU: {{convert|2500|m|mi|abbr=on}}|Lightweight CLU: {{convert|4000|m|mi|abbr=on}}<ref>{{cite web |title=Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 Budget Estimates: Justification Book of Research, Development, Test & Evaluation, Army RDT&E − Volume II, Budget Activity 5 |url=https://www.asafm.army.mil/Portals/72/Documents/BudgetMaterial/2021/Base%20Budget/rdte/RDTE_BA_5A_FY_2021_PB_RDTE_Vol%202_Budget_Activity_5A.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210402130044/https://www.asafm.army.mil/Portals/72/Documents/BudgetMaterial/2021/Base%20Budget/rdte/RDTE_BA_5A_FY_2021_PB_RDTE_Vol%202_Budget_Activity_5A.pdf |archive-date=2 April 2021 |archive-format=PDF |access-date=25 February 2022 |publisher=[[United States Department of the Army]] |location=Virginia |page=187}}</ref>|From vehicle: {{convert|4750|m|mi|abbr=on}}<ref>{{cite web |date=8 February 2013 |title=Javelin Missile Hits Targets Beyond Current Maximum Range During Tests |url=http://missilethreat.com/javelin-missile-hits-targets-beyond-current-maximum-range-during-tests/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160815204549/http://missilethreat.com/javelin-missile-hits-targets-beyond-current-maximum-range-during-tests/ |archive-date=15 August 2016 |access-date=21 June 2016 |website=missilethreat.com |publisher=Center for Strategic and International Studies |location=Washington, D.C.}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Mohammadi |first=Ali |title=Javelin Anti-Tank Guided Missile |url=http://www.military-today.com/missiles/javelin.htm |url-status=usurped |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170606095437/http://www.military-today.com/missiles/javelin.htm |archive-date=6 June 2017 |access-date=30 May 2017 |website=Military Today}}</ref>}}
| sights             = [[Optical sight]] & [[thermal imaging]]
<!-- Explosive specifications -->| filling            = Tandem-charge [[High-explosive anti-tank|HEAT]]
| filling_weight     = {{convert|8.4|kg|lb|abbr=on}}<ref>{{cite book |editor1-last=Puttré |editor1-first=Michael |title=International Electronic Countermeasures Handbook |date=2004 |publisher=Artech House |isbn=978-1-58053-898-5 |page=139 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Y8kePYFK1L8C |language=en}}</ref>
| detonation         = [[Contact fuze]]
| yield              = {{ubl|Penetration:|Stated as being in excess of |{{convert|30|in|mm|abbr=on}}{{nbsp}} [[rolled homogeneous armor|RHA]]}}<ref>{{cite web |title=Introduction to Crew Served Weapons B3M4078 Student Handout |url=https://www.trngcmd.marines.mil/Portals/207/Docs/TBS/B3M4078%20Introduction%20to%20Crew%20Served%20Weapons.pdf?ver=2015-05-07-103621-683 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210605105647/https://www.trngcmd.marines.mil/Portals/207/Docs/TBS/B3M4078%20Introduction%20to%20Crew%20Served%20Weapons.pdf?ver=2015-05-07-103621-683 |archive-date=5 June 2021 |archive-format=PDF |access-date=25 February 2022 |publisher=[[United States Marine Corps]] |pages=14–15 |publication-place=Camp Barrett, Virginia}}</ref><!-- {{Failed verification|date=February 2022|reason=From the text: "Penetration capabilities are classified. The Javelin penetrates all known armor, “well” in excess of 30 inches of rolled homogeneous steel." 30 inches = 762 mm, this part is correct. But there is no mention of the Javelin's penetration characteristics against RHA behind ERA.}}}} -->
<!-- Vehicle/missile specifications -->| guidance           = [[Infrared homing]]
<!-- Missiles only -->| propellant         = Solid-fuel
| ceiling            = {{convert|150|m|ft|abbr=on}} (top attack mode)<br/>{{convert|60|m|ft|abbr=on}} (direct attack mode)
| launch_platform    = [[Man-portable anti-tank systems|Man-portable launcher]]
}}

The '''FGM-148 Javelin''', or '''Advanced Anti-Tank Weapon System-Medium''' (AAWS-M), is an American-made [[man-portable anti-tank system]] in service since 1996 and continuously upgraded. It replaced the [[M47 Dragon]] anti-tank missile in US service.<ref name="army-technology.com"/> Its [[fire-and-forget]] design features automatic [[infrared guidance]], allowing the user to seek cover immediately after launch, in contrast to [[Wire-guided missile|wire-guided]] systems like the system used by the Dragon, which require a user to guide the weapon throughout the engagement. The Javelin's [[high-explosive anti-tank]] (HEAT) warhead can defeat modern tanks by [[top attack|top-down attack]], hitting them from above, where their armor is thinnest, and is useful against fortifications in a direct attack flight. The Javelin uses a tandem charge warhead to circumvent an enemy tank's [[explosive reactive armor]] (ERA), which would normally render HEAT warheads ineffective.

{{As of|alt=As of 2019|2019|1}}, according to claims by the manufacturer, the Javelin had been used in around five thousand successful engagements.<ref name="lockheed30jan19"/> By August 2021, fifty thousand missiles had been delivered to customers.<ref name="LM50K">{{cite web |title=Javelin Takes the Weight Off of Soldiers' Shoulders |url=https://www.lockheedmartin.com/en-us/news/features/2021/javelin-takes-the-weight-off-of-soldiers-shoulders.html |publisher=Lockheed Martin |access-date=24 May 2024}}</ref>

The weapon made its combat debut in [[Iraq War|Iraq in 2003]] and rose to prominence in the [[Russo-Ukrainian War]], where it saw extensive usage by Ukrainian forces during the early stages of the [[Russian invasion of Ukraine|2022 Russian invasion]].

==Overview==
Javelin is a fire-and-forget missile with lock-on before launch and automatic self-guidance. The system employs a [[top attack]] flight profile against armored vehicles, attacking the usually thinner top armor, but can also make a direct attack, for use against buildings, targets too close for top attack, targets under obstructions, and [[helicopter]]s.<ref name="army-technology.com">{{cite web |title=Javelin Portable Anti-Tank Missile |url=http://www.army-technology.com/projects/javelin/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150907235520/http://www.army-technology.com/projects/javelin/ |archive-date=7 September 2015 |access-date=25 December 2014 |website=www.army-technology.com |publisher=Army Technology}}</ref>

It can reach a peak altitude of {{convert|150|m|ft|abbr=on}} in top attack mode and {{convert|60|m|ft|abbr=on}} in direct attack mode. Initial versions had a range of {{convert|2000|m|ft|abbr=on}}, later increased to {{convert|2500|m|ft|abbr=on}}. It is equipped with an [[imaging infrared]] seeker. The [[tandem warhead]] is fitted with two [[shaped charge]]s: a precursor warhead to detonate any explosive [[reactive armor]] and a primary warhead to penetrate base armor.

In what is known as a "[[soft launch (missile)|soft launch]] arrangement", the missile is ejected from the launcher to a safe distance from the operator before the main [[rocket motor]]s ignite.<ref>{{cite web |title=Javelin Antitank Missile |url=http://www.fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/land/javelin.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304024018/http://fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/land/javelin.htm |archive-date=4 March 2016 |access-date=8 February 2016 |website=man.fas.org |publisher=[[Federation of American Scientists]] Military Analysis Network |location=Washington, DC, US}}</ref> This makes it harder to identify the launcher, though backblast from the launch tube still poses a hazard to nearby personnel. The firing team may move as soon as the "fire-and-forget" missile has been launched or immediately prepare to fire on their next target.<ref>{{cite book |editor1-last=Shyu |editor1-first=Heidi |title=Weapon Systems 2012 |date=2011 |publisher=OASA (ALT) |page=162 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=wpSnFvxdNNQC |access-date=20 September 2023 |language=en}}</ref>
The missile system is sometimes carried by two soldiers consisting of a gunner and an ammunition bearer, although one soldier can fire it. While the gunner aims and fires the missile, the ammunition bearer scans for prospective targets, watches for threats like enemy vehicles or troops and ensures that personnel and obstacles are clear of the missile's launch backblast.{{citation needed|date=September 2024}}

==Development==
In 1983, the [[United States Army]] introduced its AAWS-M (Advanced Anti-Tank Weapon System—Medium) requirement. In 1985, the AAWS-M was approved for development.<ref>{{cite web |last1=McFadden |first1=Christopher |title=The story of "Javelin": How it may help Ukraine even the odds |url=https://interestingengineering.com/innovation/javelin-ukraine-usa-missile |website=Interesting Engineering |publisher=Interesting Engineering Inc |access-date=10 May 2022}}</ref> In August 1986, the proof-of-principle (POP) phase of development began, with a US$30 million contract awarded for technical proof demonstrators: [[Ford Aerospace]] (laser-beam riding), [[Hughes Aircraft Company|Hughes Aircraft Missile System Group]] (imaging infrared combined with a fiber-optic cable link) and [[Texas Instruments]] (imaging infrared).<ref name="Jane's Weapons 88-89">{{cite book |last=Blake |first=Bernard |title=Jane's Weapon Systems 1988–1989 |publisher=Jane's Information Group |year=1988 |isbn=9780710608550 |location=Coulsdon, England; Alexandria, Vancouver, US |page=153 |oclc=18304207}}</ref> In late 1988, the POP phase ended. In June 1989, the full-scale development contract was awarded to a joint venture of Texas Instruments and [[Martin Marietta]], now [[Raytheon]] and [[Lockheed Martin]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Richardson |first1=Doug |title=The World of Saint Javelin |url=https://euro-sd.com/2023/03/articles/30023/the-world-of-saint-javelin/ |website=European Security & Defence |date=20 March 2023 |publisher=Mittler Report Verlag GmbH |access-date=20 March 2023}}</ref> The AAWS-M received the designation of FGM-148.

{{externalimage
|topic=AAWS-M Candidates Fact Sheets
|width=
|float=right
|image1=[http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b24/hybenamon/LAND/AAWS-M/TI-098.jpg Texas Instruments]
|image2=[http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b24/hybenamon/LAND/AAWS-M/HM-099.jpg Hughes Aircraft]
|image3=[http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b24/hybenamon/LAND/AAWS-M/FA-093.jpg Ford Aerospace]
}}

In April 1991, the first test-flight of the Javelin succeeded, and in March 1993, the first test-firing from the launcher succeeded. In 1994, low levels of production were authorized,<ref name="army-technology.com"/> and the first Javelins were deployed with US Army units in 1996.<ref name="army-technology.com"/>

===Test and evaluation===
The General Accounting Office (GAO), since renamed [[Government Accountability Office]], published a report questioning the adequacy of Javelin testing. 
#  involving operational testers early in development;
#  use of modelling and simulation; 
#  integrating development and operational testing; 
#  combining testing and training.

The late-phase development of the Javelin retroactively benefited from the then-new operational test initiatives set forth by the Secretary of Defense, as well as a further test conducted as a consequence of the Army's response to the GAO report. Before it was fielded to the 3rd Battalion of the [[75th Ranger Regiment]] at [[Fort Benning]] (and later [[Special Forces]], [[Airborne forces|airborne]], [[air assault]], and [[light infantry]] units), the Javelin was subjected to limited parts of the five operational test and evaluation initiatives, as well as a portability operational test program, an additional test phase of the so-called Product Verification Test,<ref name=":2">{{cite web |title=Javelin |url=http://www.redstone.army.mil/history/systems/JAVELIN.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010215020759/http://www.redstone.army.mil/history/systems/JAVELIN.html |archive-date=15 February 2001 |access-date=30 May 2017 |website=www.redstone.army.mil}}</ref> which included live firings with the full-rate configuration weapon.

The [[Institute for Defense Analyses]] and the Defense Department's Director of Operational Test and Evaluation became involved in three development test activities, including 
# reviewing initial operational test and evaluation plans;
# monitoring initial operational test and evaluation;
# structuring follow-on test and evaluation activities.

===Qualification testing===
The Javelin Environmental Test System (JETS) is a mobile test set for Javelin All-Up-Round (AUR) and the Command Launch Unit (CLU). It can be configured to functionally test the AUR or the CLU individually or both units in a mated tactical mode. This mobile unit may be repositioned at the various environmental testing facilities. The mobile system is used for all phases of Javelin qualification testing. There is a non-mobile JETS used for stand-alone CLU testing. This system is equipped with an environmental chamber and is primarily used for Product Verification Testing (PRVT). Capabilities include: Javelin CLU testing; Javelin AUR testing; Javelin Mated Mode testing; Javelin testing in various environmental conditions; and CLU PRVT.<ref>{{cite web |title=Instrumentation Development: Javelin Environmental Test System (JETS) |url=http://www.rttc.army.mil/whatwedo/primary_ser/insdev/jets.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080126214209/http://www.rttc.army.mil/whatwedo/primary_ser/insdev/jets.htm |archive-date=26 January 2008 |access-date=25 February 2022 |website=www.rttc.army.mil |publisher=[[United States Army Test and Evaluation Command]] |location=[[Redstone Technical Test Center]], Huntsville, Alabama, US}}</ref>

The all-up-round test sets include: extreme temperature testing; missile tracker testing (track rate error, tracking sensitivity); seeker/[[focal plane array]] testing (cool-down time, dead/defective pixels, seeker identification); pneumatic leakage; continuity measurements; ready time; and guidance sections (guidance commands, fin movement).

==Components==
{{More citations needed section|date=February 2022}}
The system consists of three main components: the Command Launch Unit, the Launch Tube Assembly and the missile itself. Each missile contains 250 [[microprocessor]]s.<ref name= fgm148Stats >Joe Gould [https://www.defensenews.com/industry/2022/05/09/lockheed-aiming-to-double-javelin-production-seeks-supply-chain-crank-up (9 May 2022) Lockheed, aiming to double Javelin production, seeks supply chain 'crank up']</ref>

===Command launch unit===
[[File:Javelin Firing Positions MOD 45162589.jpg|thumb|The command launch unit. The larger lens is the ''night vision sight'', and the smaller is the ''daysight'']]
[[File:FGM-148 Javelin - ID 030206-M-5753Q-004.jpg|thumb|The CLU team after firing]]

The gunner carries a reusable ''command launch unit'' (CLU, pronounced "clue"), which is the targeting component of the two-part system. The CLU has three views, which are used to find, target, and fire the missile and may be used separately from the missile as a portable [[thermal sight]]. Infantry personnel are no longer required to stay in constant contact with [[armored personnel carrier]]s and [[tank]]s with thermal sights. This makes them more flexible and able to perceive threats they would not otherwise be able to detect. In 2006, a contract was awarded to Toyon Research Corporation to begin development of an upgrade to the CLU, enabling the transmission of target image and [[GPS]] location data to other units.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dodsbir.net/selections/abs062/armyabs062.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070927063748/http://www.dodsbir.net/selections/abs062/armyabs062.htm|archive-date=27 September 2007|title=262 Phase I Selections from the 06.2 Solicitation}}</ref>

====Day field of view====
The first view is a 4× magnification day view. It is mainly used to scan areas in visible light during daylight operation. It is also used to scan immediately before sunrise and after sunset, when it is difficult to focus the thermal image due to the natural rapid heating or cooling of the environment.

====Wide field of view====
The second view is the 4× magnification night view, a ''wide field of view'' (WFOV) which shows the gunner a thermal representation of the area viewed. This is the primary view used, due to its ability to detect [[infrared radiation]] and find both troops and vehicles otherwise too well hidden to detect. The screen shows a "green scale" view which can be adjusted in both contrast and brightness. The inside of the CLU is cooled by a small [[refrigeration]] unit attached to the sight. This greatly increases the sensitivity of the thermal imaging capability, since the temperature inside the sight is much lower than that of the objects it detects.

Due to the sensitivity this causes, the gunner is able to "focus" the CLU to show a detailed image of the area being viewed, by showing temperature differences of only a few degrees. The gunner operates this view with the use of two hand stations similar to the [[control stick]] found in modern [[cockpit (aviation)|cockpits]]. It is from this view that the gunner focuses the image and determines the area that gives the best heat signature on which to lock the missile.

====Narrow field of view====
The third field of view is a 12× thermal sight, used to better identify the target vehicle. Once the CLU has been focused in WFOV, the gunner may switch to a ''narrow field of view'' (NFOV) for target recognition before activating the ''seeker FOV''.

Once the best target area is chosen, the gunner presses one of the two triggers and is automatically switched to the fourth view, the ''seeker FOV'', which is a 9x magnification thermal view. This process is similar to the automatic zoom feature on most modern cameras. This view is available along with the previously mentioned views, all of which may be accessed with the press of a button. However, it is not as commonly used as a high-magnification view, because it takes longer to scan a wide area.

This view allows the gunner to further aim the missile and set the guidance system housed inside it. It is when in this view that information is passed from the CLU, through the connection electronics of the launch tube assembly, and into the missile's guidance system. If the gunner decides not to fire the missile immediately, they can cycle back to the other views without firing. When the gunner is satisfied with the target picture, a second trigger is pulled to establish a "lock". The missile launches after a short delay.

====Lightweight CLU====
{{missing information|section|gap between original CLU and Block I; recommend making a CLU history section merging in the 2006 GPS mention|date=January 2023}}
[[File:LWCLU.png|thumb|Lightweight Command Launch Unit (LW CLU)]]
The US Army developed a new CLU as an improvement over the Block I version. The new CLU is 70% smaller, 40% lighter and has a 50% battery life increase. Features of the lightweight CLU are: a long-wave [[infrared]] (IR) [[thermographic camera]]; a high-definition display with improved resolution; integrated handgrips; a five-megapixel color camera; a laser point that can be seen visibly or through IR; a far target locator using GPS, a laser rangefinder, a heading sensor, and modernized electronics.<ref name="dtic" /> The LW CLU has demonstrated the ability to fire a [[FIM-92 Stinger]] anti-aircraft missile, using its superior optics to identify and destroy small [[unmanned aerial vehicle]]s (UAVs).<ref>{{cite web |last=Lye |first=Harry |date=12 March 2021 |title=Raytheon launches Stinger missile from Javelin launcher |url=https://www.army-technology.com/news/raytheon-launches-stinger-missile-from-javelin-launcher/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220225165223/https://www.army-technology.com/news/raytheon-launches-stinger-missile-from-javelin-launcher/ |archive-date=25 February 2022 |access-date=25 February 2022 |website=Army Technology |location=New York, NY, US}}</ref> Compared to the Block I Command Launch Unit (CLU), the Lightweight CLU will double target identification range and increase system engagement range from 2.5 kilometers (km) to 4&nbsp;km.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Department of Defense |date=February 2020 |title=Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 Budget Estimates |url=https://www.asafm.army.mil/Portals/72/Documents/BudgetMaterial/2021/Base%20Budget/rdte/RDTE_BA_5A_FY_2021_PB_RDTE_Vol%202_Budget_Activity_5A.pdf}}</ref>

The Javelin Joint Venture received its first low-rate production contract for the LW CLU in June 2022. 200 units will be delivered before full-rate production is expected to initiate in 2023, which will increase the production rate to 600 per year. First delivery is slated for 2025.<ref>[https://www.nationaldefensemagazine.org/articles/2022/10/11/lightweight-javelin-launch-unit-enters-low-rate-production AUSA NEWS: Lightweight Javelin Launcher Enters Low-Rate Production]. ''National Defense Magazine''. 11 October 2022.</ref>

===Launch tube assembly===
Both the gunner and the ammunition bearer carry the Launch Tube Assembly, a disposable tube that houses the missile and protects the missile from harsh environments. The tube has built-in electronics and a locking hinge system that makes attachment and detachment of the missile to and from the Command Launch Unit a quick and simple process.

===Missile===

====Warhead====
[[File:FGM-148 Javelin firing.webm|thumb|300x300px|FGM-148 Javelin firing]]
[[File:1-20 Javelin missile.png|thumb|right|Missile components]]
[[File:FGM-148 Javelin missile launch.jpg|thumb|Javelin missile launch]]
The Javelin missile's tandem warhead is a [[high-explosive anti-tank]] (HEAT) type.<ref name="army-technology.com" /> This round utilizes an explosive [[shaped charge]] to create a stream of [[superplasticity|superplastically]] deformed metal, formed from trumpet-shaped metallic liners. The result is a narrow high velocity particle stream that can penetrate armor.

The Javelin counters the advent of [[explosive reactive armor]] (ERA). ERA boxes or tiles lying over a vehicle's main armor explode when struck by a warhead. This explosion does not harm the vehicle's main armor, but causes steel panels to fly across the path of a HEAT round's narrow particle stream, disrupting its focus and leaving it unable to cut through the main armor. The Javelin uses two shaped-charge warheads in tandem. The weak, smaller diameter HEAT precursor charge detonates the ERA, clearing the way for the much larger diameter HEAT warhead, which then penetrates the target's primary armor.

A two-layered [[molybdenum]] liner is used for the precursor, and a copper liner for the main warhead.

To protect the main charge from the explosive blast, shock, and debris caused by the impact of the missile's nose and the detonation of the precursor charge, a blast shield is used between the two charges. This was the first [[composite material]] blast shield and the first that had a hole through the middle to provide a jet that is less diffuse.

A newer main charge liner produces a higher velocity jet. While making the warhead smaller, this change makes it more effective, leaving more room for propellant for the main rocket motor, increasing the missile's range.

Electronic arming and fusing, called Electronic Safe Arming and Fire (ESAF), is present on the Javelin. The ESAF system enables the firing and arming process to proceed, while imposing a series of safety checks on the missile. ESAF cues the launch motor after the trigger is pulled. When the missile reaches a key acceleration point, indicating that it has cleared the launch tube, the ESAF initiates a second arming signal to fire the flight motor. After another check on missile conditions (target lock check), ESAF initiates final arming to enable the warheads for detonation upon target impact. When the missile strikes the target, ESAF enables the tandem warhead function, to provide appropriate time between the detonation of the precursor charge and the [[detonation]] of the main charge.

Though the Javelin's tandem HEAT warhead has proven efficient at destroying tanks, most threats it was employed against in Iraq and Afghanistan were weapon crews and teams, buildings, and lightly armored and unarmored vehicles. To make the Javelin more useful in these scenarios, the [[Aviation and Missile Research, Development, and Engineering Center]] developed a multi-purpose warhead (MPWH) for the FGM-148F. While it is still lethal against tanks, the new warhead has a naturally fragmenting steel warhead case, that doubles the effectiveness against personnel due to enhanced fragmentation. The MPWH does not add weight or cost and has a lighter composite missile mid-body to enable drop-in replacement to existing Javelin tubes.<ref name=":1">{{cite news |last=Smith |first=Heather |date=3 July 2012 |title=Javelin warhead redesigned for future threats |work=The Redstone Rocket |location=Decatur, Alabama, US |url=https://www.theredstonerocket.com/article_581556c6-b85d-5de3-b18c-71bb89b842c6.html |url-status=live |access-date=25 February 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220225201858/https://www.theredstonerocket.com/article_581556c6-b85d-5de3-b18c-71bb89b842c6.html |archive-date=25 February 2022}}</ref><ref name="dtic">{{cite web|url=https://ndiastorage.blob.core.usgovcloudapi.net/ndia/2013/PSAR_13/hicks.pdf|title=Close Combat Missile Systems Overview to Precision Strike Association |last=Hicks|first=Dave|date=20 March 2013 |url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140407085733/http://www.dtic.mil/ndia/2013PSAR_13/hicks.pdf |archive-date=7 April 2014 |archive-format=PDF}}</ref> The Javelin F-model was planned to begin deliveries in early 2020.<ref name="lockheed30jan19" /> The improved missile design, along with new lighter CLU with an improved target tracker,{{dubious|reason=Only this one source (+ copies because Internet) claims FGM-184F includes the CLU. Army DOTE just says "missile". Janes report on the matter says CLU is for the "future", i.e. same as "LWCLU".|date=January 2023}} entered production in May 2020.<ref>{{cite news |last=Gould |first=Joe |date=6 May 2020 |title=Lockheed-Raytheon's deadlier F-Model Javelin anti-tank missile rolls into production |work=[[Defense News]] |publisher=[[Sightline Media Group]] |location=Tysons, Virginia, US |url=https://www.defensenews.com/2020/05/06/deadlier-f-model-javelin-antitank-missile-rolls-into-production/ |url-status=live |access-date=25 February 2022 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20200507074052/https://www.defensenews.com/2020/05/06/deadlier-f-model-javelin-antitank-missile-rolls-into-production/ |archive-date=7 May 2020 }}</ref>

====Propulsion====
{{unreferenced section|date=September 2024}}
[[File:Javelin of 2nd Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade, Exercise Rock Sokol at Pocek Range in Postonja, Slovenia, March 9, 2016.jpg|thumb|A U.S. soldier firing a Javelin]][[File:2SBCT-4ID fires Javelin using CROWS-J at FortCarson.jpg|thumb|Javelin fired from Common Remotely Operated Weapon Station-Javelin (CROWS-J) mounted on a [[Stryker]], April 2022, [[Fort Carson]]<ref>Sgt. Gabrielle Pena [https://www.army.mil/article/256358/stryker_brigade_combat_team_equips_modernized_missile_system (3 May 2022) Stryker Brigade Combat Team equips modernized missile system]</ref>]]Most rocket launchers require a large clear area behind the gunner to prevent injury from backblast. To address this shortcoming without increasing recoil to an unacceptable level, the Javelin system uses a [[Soft launch (missile)|soft launch]] mechanism. A small launch motor using conventional rocket [[propellant]] ejects the missile from the launcher, but stops burning before the missile clears the tube. The flight motor is ignited after a delay to allow sufficient clearance from the operator.

To save weight, the two motors are integrated with a [[burst disc]] between them. It is designed to tolerate the pressure of the launch motor from one side, but to easily rupture from the other when the flight motor ignites. The motors use a common nozzle. The flight motor's exhaust flows through the expended launch motor. Because the launch motor casing remains in place, an unusual ring-shaped igniter is used to start it. A normal igniter would be blown out of the back of the missile when the flight motor ignited and could injure the operator.

Since the launch motor uses a standard NATO propellant,{{clarify|date=September 2024}} the presence of lead beta-resorcylate as a burn rate modifier causes an amount of [[lead]] and [[lead oxide]] to be present in the exhaust. Gunners are asked to hold their breath after firing for their safety.{{citation needed|date=September 2022}}

In the event that the launch motor malfunctions and the launch tube is overpressurized—for example, if the rocket gets stuck—the Javelin missile includes a pressure release system to prevent the launcher from exploding. The launch motor is held in place by a set of [[shear pin]]s, which fracture if the pressure rises too high. They allow the motor to be pushed out of the back of the tube.

====Seeker====
As a [[fire-and-forget]] missile, after launch the missile has to be able to track and destroy its target without assistance from the gunner. This is done by coupling an onboard imaging IR system, separate from CLU imaging system, with an onboard tracking system.

The gunner uses the CLU's IR system to find and identify the target, then switches to the missile's independent IR system to set a track box around the target and establish a lock. The gunner places brackets around the image for locking.

The seeker stays focused on the target's image, continuing to track it as the target moves or the missile's flight path alters, or attack angles change. The seeker consists of three main components: [[staring array|focal plane array]] image sensor, cooling and calibration, and stabilization.

====Focal plane array (FPA)====
{{Main|Staring array}}
The seeker assembly is encased in a dome that is transparent to long-wave [[infrared]] radiation. The IR radiation passes through the dome and then through lenses that focus the energy. The IR energy is reflected by mirrors on to the FPA. The seeker is a two-dimensional staring FPA of 64×64 [[MerCad]] (HgCdTe) detector elements.<ref>{{cite web |year=2006 |title=64 × 64 LWIR Focal Plane Assembly (FPA) Highly Linear, Rapid Operation Staring Array |url=http://www.raytheon.com/capabilities/rtnwcm/groups/ncs/documents/content/rtn_ncs_products_scanning_jave.pdf |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090227003737/http://www.raytheon.com/capabilities/rtnwcm/groups/ncs/documents/content/rtn_ncs_products_scanning_jave.pdf |archive-date=27 February 2009 |archive-format=PDF |access-date=25 February 2022 |website=www.raytheon.com |publisher=[[Raytheon Technologies]] |location=Waltham, Massachusetts, U.S.}}</ref> The FPA processes the signals from the detectors and relays a signal to the missile's tracker.

The staring array is a photo-voltaic device where the incident photons stimulate electrons and are stored, pixel by pixel, in [[readout integrated circuit]]s attached at the rear of the detector. These electrons are converted to voltages that are multiplexed out of the ROIC on a frame-by-frame basis.

====Cooling/calibration====
To function effectively, the FPA must be cooled and calibrated. In other applications, a CLU's IR detectors are cooled using a [[Dewar flask]] and a closed-cycle [[Stirling engine]], but there is insufficient space in the missile for a similar solution. Prior to launch, a cooler mounted on the outside of the launch tube activates the electrical systems in the missile, and supplies cold gas from a [[Joule-Thomson effect|Joule-Thomson expander]] to the missile detector assembly, while the missile is still in the launch tube. When the missile is fired, this external connection is broken and coolant gas is supplied internally by an onboard [[argon]] gas bottle. The gas is held in a small bottle at high pressure and contains enough coolant for the duration of the flight of approximately 19 seconds.

The seeker is calibrated using a [[chopper wheel]]. This device is a fan of six blades: five black blades with low IR emissivity and one semi-reflective blade. These blades spin in front of the seeker optics in a synchronized fashion such that the FPA is continually provided with points of reference in addition to viewing the scene. These reference points allow the FPA to reduce noise introduced by response variations in the detector elements.

====Stabilization====
The platform on which the seeker is mounted must be stabilized with respect to the motion of the missile body, and the seeker must be moved to stay aligned with the target. The stabilization system must cope with rapid acceleration, up/down and lateral movements. This is done by a [[gimbal]] system, [[accelerometer]]s, [[Gyroscope|spinning-mass gyros]] (or [[Microelectromechanical systems|MEMS]]), and motors to drive changes in position of the platform. The system is basically an [[autopilot]]. Information from the gyros is fed to the guidance electronics, which drive a torque motor attached to the seeker platform to keep the seeker aligned with the target. The wires that connect the seeker with the rest of the missile are carefully designed to avoid inducing motion or drag on the seeker platform.

====Tracker====
[[File:1-27 Top attack flight path..PNG|thumb|Top attack flight path.]]
[[File:1-29 Direct attack flight path..PNG|thumb|Direct attack flight path.]]
The tracker is key to guidance/control for an eventual hit. The signals from each of the 4,096 detector elements (64×64 pixel array) in the seeker are passed to the FPA [[readout integrated circuit]]s which reads then creates a [[video frame]] that is sent to the tracker system for processing. By comparing the individual frames, the tracker determines the need to correct so as to keep the missile on target. The tracker must be able to determine which portion of the image represents the target.

The target is initially defined by the gunner, who places a configurable frame around it. The tracker then uses [[algorithms]] to compare that region of the frame based on image, geometric, and movement data to the new image frames being sent from the seeker, similar to [[pattern recognition]] algorithms. At the end of each frame, the reference is updated. The tracker is able to keep track of the target even though the seeker's point of view can change radically in the course of flight.

The missile is equipped with four movable tail fins and eight fixed wings at mid-body. To guide the missile, the tracker locates the target in the current frame and compares this position with the aim point. If this position is off center, the tracker computes a correction and passes it to the [[guidance system]], which makes the appropriate adjustments to the four movable tail fins. This is an [[autopilot]]. To guide the missile, the system has sensors that check that the fins are positioned as requested. If not, the deviation is sent back to the controller for further adjustment. This is a [[closed-loop controller]].

There are three stages in the flight managed by the tracker: 1) an initial phase just after launch; 2) a mid-flight phase that lasts for most of the flight; and 3) a terminal phase in which the tracker selects the most effective point of impact. With guidance algorithms, the autopilot uses data from the seeker and tracker, to determine when to transition the missile from one phase of flight to another. Depending on whether the missile is in top attack or direct attack mode, the profile of the flight can change significantly.

The top attack mode requires the missile to climb sharply after launch and cruise at high altitude, then dive on the top of the target (curveball). In direct attack mode (fastball), the missile cruises at a lower altitude directly at the target. The flight path takes into account the range to the target, calculated by the guidance unit.

==Training==
[[File:UK and Lithuanian troops conduct anti-tank live-fire training (2022-03-08).webm|thumb|thumbtime=00:53|300x300px|British and Lithuanian troops conduct anti-tank live-fire training using NLAW and FGM-148 Javelin, March 2022]]
A great familiarity of each control and swift operation needs to be achieved before the unit can be deployed efficiently. American troops are trained on the system at the [[United States Army Infantry School|Infantry School]] in [[Fort Benning|Fort Moore]], [[Georgia (U.S. state)|Georgia]], for two weeks. The soldiers are taught basic care and maintenance, operation and abilities, assembly and disassembly, and the positions it can be fired from. Soldiers are taught to distinguish between a variety of vehicle types, even when only a rough outline is visible.<ref name=":2" />

The soldiers must accomplish several timed drills with set standards, before being qualified to operate the system in both training and wartime situations. There are smaller training programs set up on most army bases that instruct soldiers on the proper use of the system. At these courses, the training program might be changed in small ways. This is most commonly only minor requirements left out due to budget, the number of soldiers vs. simulation equipment, and available time and resources. Both types of training courses have required proficiency levels that must be met before the soldier can operate the system in training exercises or wartime missions.<ref name=":1" />

== Combat history ==
The Javelin was used by the US Army, the US Marine Corps and the Australian Special Forces in the [[2003 invasion of Iraq]],<ref name="army-technology.com"/> on Iraqi [[Type 69 tank|Type 69]] and [[Lion of Babylon tank]]s. During the [[Battle of Debecka Pass]], a [[platoon]] of [[United States Army Special Forces|US Army Special Forces]] operators equipped with Javelins destroyed two [[T-54/T-55|T-55]] tanks, eight armored personnel carriers, and four troop transport trucks.<ref>{{cite news |last=Shanker |first=Thom |date=22 September 2003 |title=The Struggle for Iraq: Combat; How Green Berets Beat the Odds at an Iraq Alamo |work=[[The New York Times]] |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2003/09/22/world/the-struggle-for-iraq-combat-how-green-berets-beat-the-odds-at-an-iraq-alamo.html |url-status=live |url-access=limited |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171014094421/http://www.nytimes.com/2003/09/22/world/the-struggle-for-iraq-combat-how-green-berets-beat-the-odds-at-an-iraq-alamo.html |archive-date=14 October 2017}}</ref>

[[File:US Army Special Forces soldier javelin Syria.jpg|thumb|right|A [[Special Forces (United States Army)|US Special Forces]] soldier using a Javelin's CLU to spot [[ISIL]] targets in Syria, 11 October 2018]]
During the [[War in Afghanistan (2001–2021)|War in Afghanistan]], the Javelin was used effectively in [[counter-insurgency]] (COIN) operations. Initially, soldiers perceived the weapon as unsuitable for COIN due to its destructive power, but trained gunners were able to make precision shots against enemy positions with little collateral damage.{{citation needed|date=March 2022}} The Javelin filled a niche in US weapons systems against [[DShK heavy machine gun]]s and [[B-10 recoilless rifle]]s—weapons like the [[AT4]] and the [[M203]] grenade launcher were powerful enough, but the ~300 m range was insufficient. Conversely, while medium and heavy machine guns and automatic grenade launchers had the range, they lacked the power, and heavy mortars, which had both a good range and more than enough power, were not accurate enough.<ref name="Javelin Afghanistan">{{cite web |date=15 March 2012 |title=Javelin in Afghanistan: The Effective Use of an Anti-Tank Weapon for Counter-Insurgency Operations |url=http://www.dtic.mil/ndia/2012armaments/Tuesday14015schlabach.pdf |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304003733/http://www.dtic.mil/ndia/2012armaments/Tuesday14015schlabach.pdf |archive-date=4 March 2016 |archive-format=PDF |access-date=8 February 2016 |website=www.dtic.mil |publisher=[[Raytheon Technologies]] |location=Waltham, Massachusetts, U.S.}}</ref>

The Javelin had enough range, power, and accuracy for dismounted infantry to counter standoff engagement tactics employed by enemy weapons. With good locks, the missile is most effective against vehicles, caves, fortified positions, and individual personnel. If enemy forces were inside a cave, a Javelin fired into the mouth of the cave would destroy it from the inside, which was not possible from the outside using heavy mortars. The psychological effect of the sound of a Javelin firing, sometimes caused insurgents to disengage and flee their position. Even when not firing, the Javelin's CLU was commonly used as a man-portable surveillance system.<ref name="Javelin Afghanistan"/>

In February 2016, during the [[al-Shaddadi offensive (2016)|al-Shaddadi offensive]] of the [[Syrian Civil War]], a Javelin was used to blow up an attacking suicide [[car bomb]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aftoBdrjm7Q&t=1472|title=EXCLUSIVE: Interethnic coalition takes on the IS group in Syria|work=[[France 24]]|via=Youtube|date=22 April 2016|access-date=24 April 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160428124724/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aftoBdrjm7Q|archive-date=28 April 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>

In 2016, claims were posted on social media that the Syrian Kurdish [[People's Protection Units]] (YPG) may have received Javelin missiles.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/checkpoint/wp/2016/02/23/this-highly-advanced-u-s-made-anti-tank-missile-just-popped-up-on-syrias-frontlines/ |newspaper=The Washington Post |title=This highly advanced U.S.-made anti-tank missile could now be on Syria's frontlines |first=Thomas |last=Gibbons-Neff |date=23 February 2016 |access-date=7 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305013522/https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/checkpoint/wp/2016/02/23/this-highly-advanced-u-s-made-anti-tank-missile-just-popped-up-on-syrias-frontlines/ |archive-date=5 March 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref> By June 2018, it was still unconfirmed if the YPG were fielding Javelin missiles, although [[Special Forces (United States Army)|US Special Forces]] units were seen operating them in support of [[Syrian Democratic Forces]] (SDF) advances during the [[Deir ez-Zor campaign (September 2017–present)#ISIL counterattacks|Deir ez-Zor campaign]] in the Middle [[Euphrates]] River Valley.

In June 2019, forces of the Libyan [[Government of National Accord]] captured four Javelins from the forces of the [[Libyan National Army]]. These missiles had been provided by the UAE.<ref name="Libya">{{cite news |last1=Walsh |first1=Declan |last2=Schmitt |first2=Eric |last3=Ismay |first3=John |date=28 June 2019 |title=American Missiles Found in Libyan Rebel Compound |work=[[The New York Times]] |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2019/06/28/world/africa/libya-american-missiles.html |url-status=live |url-access=limited |access-date=25 February 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211116020808/https://www.nytimes.com/2019/06/28/world/africa/libya-american-missiles.html |archive-date=16 November 2021}}</ref>

During the [[Russian invasion of Ukraine]], NATO provided thousands of Javelins to Ukraine, where they proved highly effective. Javelins have been responsible for a part of the thousands of Russian armored vehicles that Ukraine has destroyed, captured or damaged.<ref>{{cite web |last= |first= |date=17 March 2022 |title=Ukraine Has Become a Graveyard for Russian Tanks |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/ukraine-has-become-a-graveyard-for-russian-tanks-11647521721 |access-date=18 March 2022 |website=WSJ.com |publisher=Wall Street Journal}}</ref> The Pentagon claimed that of the first 112 Javelins fired by the Ukrainians since the start of the war, 100 missiles had hit their target.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Guttman |first=Jon |date=2022-05-12 |title=Javelin missile: Made by the US, wielded by Ukraine, feared by Russia |url=https://www.militarytimes.com/off-duty/gearscout/2022/05/12/javelin-missile-made-by-the-us-wielded-by-ukraine-feared-by-russia/ |access-date=2022-11-03 |website=Military Times |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=The Ukrainian army has set a record in the effectiveness of the use of anti-tank systems Javelin - Pentagon 112 shots - 100 accurate hits on target 🎯 |url=https://twitter.com/ng_ukraine/status/1504725782538641422 |access-date=2022-11-03 |website=Twitter |language=en}}</ref> An image dubbed "[[Saint Javelin]]", which shows the [[Virgin Mary]] holding a Javelin launcher in the style of an [[Icon|Eastern Orthodox church painting]], gained social media attention, and soon became a symbol of the Ukrainian resistance against the Russian invasion.<ref>{{cite news |last=Ghosh |first=Poulomi |date=26 February 2022 |title=Who is St Javelin? Why is she going viral amid Russia-Ukraine war? |work=Hindustan Times |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/who-is-st-javelin-why-is-she-going-viral-amid-russia-ukraine-war-101645866908622.html |access-date=26 February 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=26 February 2022 |title=How St Javelin become the face of Ukraine resistance amid war? |work=mint |url=https://www.livemint.com/news/world/how-st-javelin-become-the-face-of-ukraine-resistance-amid-war-read-here-11645871059873.html |access-date=26 February 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Gault |first=Matthew |date=25 February 2022 |title=Who Is St. Javelin and Why Is She a Symbol of the War in Ukraine? |work=Vice |url=https://www.vice.com/en/article/who-is-st-javelin-and-why-is-she-a-symbol-of-the-war-in-ukraine/ |access-date=26 February 2022}}</ref>

An unknown number of Javelin launch tube assemblies were captured by the Russian armed forces during the conflict. It is unclear if any of the captured launchers contained live rounds, or were simply tubes discarded after being used.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-06-13 |title=Russia Flaunts Stockpile of Western Arms Abandoned By Ukrainian Troops |url=https://www.newsweek.com/russia-flaunts-stockpile-captured-western-arms-abandoned-ukrainian-troops-1715423 |access-date=2022-11-15 |website=Newsweek |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=<!--Not stated--> |date=27 February 2022 |title=Amerikanskij granatomet i raketu NLAW našli na byvših pozicijah VSU |script-title=ru:Американский гранатомет и ракету NLAW нашли на бывших позициях ВСУ |language=ru |trans-title=American grenade launcher and NLAW rocket found at former positions of the Ukrainian Armed Forces |work=[[Izvestiya]] |publisher=Inews |publication-place=Moscow, Russia |url=https://iz.ru/1297657/2022-02-27/amerikanskii-granatomet-i-raketu-nlaw-nashli-na-byvshikh-pozitciiakh-vsu |url-status=live |access-date=15 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220227104359/https://iz.ru/1297657/2022-02-27/amerikanskii-granatomet-i-raketu-nlaw-nashli-na-byvshikh-pozitciiakh-vsu |archive-date=27 February 2022 |issn=0233-4356 |oclc=427395058}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last1=Jakes |first1=Lara |last2=Ismay |first2=John |date=2022-10-27 |title=U.S. Program Aims to Keep Sensitive Weapons in Ukraine |language=en-US |work=The New York Times |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2022/10/27/us/politics/weapons-aid-ukraine-russia.html |access-date=2022-11-15 |issn=0362-4331}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Russia Shows Off "Trophies", Says Foreign-Made Weapons Seized |url=https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/russia-ukraine-war-russia-shows-off-trophies-says-foreign-made-weapons-seized-3236073 |access-date=2022-11-15 |website=NDTV.com}}</ref> [[Iran]] reportedly received an example of the Javelin missile from [[Russia]], along with other Western munitions captured in [[Ukraine]], as part of a larger deal for [[Shahed 131|Shahed]] and [[Qods Mohajer-6|Mohajer]] drones.<ref name="dh">{{Cite web |author=Deborah Haynes |title=Russia flew €140m in cash and captured Western weapons to Iran in return for deadly drones, source claims |url=https://news.sky.com/story/russia-gave-eur140m-and-captured-western-weapons-to-iran-in-return-for-deadly-drones-source-claims-12741742 |date= 9 November 2022|access-date=10 November 2022 |website= Sky News|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230420211129/https://news.sky.com/story/russia-gave-eur140m-and-captured-western-weapons-to-iran-in-return-for-deadly-drones-source-claims-12741742|archive-date=April 20, 2023}}</ref>

In April 2022 commentary from the [[Center for Strategic and International Studies|Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS)]], concerns were raised over the US stock of Javelin missiles. According to CSIS, the US had used close to one-third of its Javelin missiles. 7,000 had been supplied, with the United States buying Javelins at the rate of about 1,000 a year. The maximum production rate is 6,480 a year, but it would likely take a year or more to reach that level. Orders take 32 months to deliver. The report concluded that it would take about three or four years to replace the missiles that had been sent to Ukraine. The missile production rate could be increased greatly with a national procurement effort.<ref>{{cite news |last=Cancian |first=Mark |date=12 April 2022 |title= Will the United States Run Out of Javelins Before Russia Runs Out of Tanks? |work=Centre for Strategic and International Studies |url=https://www.csis.org/analysis/will-united-states-run-out-javelins-russia-runs-out-tanks |access-date=16 April 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Cancian |first=Mark |date=14 April 2022 |title= Will the US run out of Javelin anti-tank missiles to give Ukraine before Russia runs out of tanks? |work=Yahoo.com |url= https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/us-run-javelin-anti-tank-210857296.html |access-date=16 April 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|date=14 April 2022 |title= US stocks of Javelin anti-tank missiles are running low, report says |work=Egypt Independent |url=https://egyptindependent.com/us-stocks-of-javelin-anti-tank-missiles-are-running-low-report-says/ |access-date=16 April 2022}}</ref>

In May 2022, Lockheed Martin CEO James Taiclet stated that Lockheed would nearly double the production of Javelins to 4,000 a year. Ukrainian officials estimated that up to 500 missiles per day were being used in the early days of the war.<ref>{{cite news|publisher=CNN|date=24 March 2022 |title=Ukraine tells the US it needs 500 Javelins and 500 Stingers per day|url=https://edition.cnn.com/2022/03/24/politics/ukraine-us-request-javelin-stinger-missiles/index.html|access-date=5 October 2023}}</ref> In August 2022, the US committed to sending an additional 1,000 Javelin missiles to Ukraine.<ref>{{Cite web |title=$1 Billion in Additional Security Assistance for Ukraine |url=https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/3120059/1-billion-in-additional-security-assistance-for-ukraine/|access-date=2022-08-08 |website=U.S. Department of Defense}}</ref>

==Variants==
*FGM-148A: Initial small batch in 1996.<ref name="csis">{{cite web |title=FGM-148 Javelin |url=https://missilethreat.csis.org/missile/fgm-148-javelin/ |website=Missile Threat}}</ref>
*FGM-148B: Unclear. Likely the Enhanced Producibility Program (EPP) design introduced before the Javelin's Milestone III.<ref name="csis"/>
*FGM-148C: 1999, probably the Javelin Enhanced Tandem Integration (JETI) modification. DoD claims "enhancements that alter the missile dome".<ref name="csis"/> Described as "Block 0" by Janes.<ref name=Janesf>{{cite web |title=US Army expected to receive new F-model Javelin missile later this year |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/2020/05/11/b9fff102-a646-425a-9d69-4390f3b91fe4 |website=Janes.com |date=10 May 2020 |language=en}}</ref>
*FGM-148D: Export version.<ref name="csis"/>
*"Block 1": 2006. Faster and more lethal missiles, a new "Block I CLU" providing increased ID range and surveillance time.<ref name="csis"/> Janes claims this is the same as FGM-148E.<ref name=Janesf/>
*FGM-148E: Replaced electronic components in the control actuator section of the missile, for cost and weight savings. Developed as "Spiral 1" in 2013–14. Production started in 2017.<ref name="dote">{{cite web |title=Javelin Close Combat Missile System – Medium |year=2017 |url=https://www.dote.osd.mil/Portals/97/pub/reports/FY2017/army/2017javelin.pdf?ver=2019-08-19-113850-147 |publisher=[[Office of the Secretary of Defense]] |access-date=12 March 2022}} {{PD-notice}}</ref>
*FGM-148F: Fitted with a multi-purpose warhead (MPWH). Developed as "Spiral 2". Production started in May 2020.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.army-technology.com/projects/javelin-portable-anti-tank-missile/ |title=Javelin Portable Anti-Tank Missile|publisher=Army Technology|date=14 March 2022}}</ref><ref name="dote"/>
*FGM-148G: To be developed from project "Spiral 3". Will develop a new launch tube assembly and battery unit, and will replace the current gas-cooled seeker with an uncooled seeker in the guidance section of the missile. Production missiles will be designated FGM-148G.<ref name="dote"/>

The LWCLU does not yet have a variant designation.<ref name="dote"/>

==Operators==
<!--READ FIRST: This section is for cited entries only. Please do not add entries into this list without a citation from a reliable source. All entries without a citation will be removed. Thank you.-->
[[File:FGM-148 Javelin Users World Map.svg|thumb|A map with FGM-148 operators in blue]]
[[File:Norwegian javelin.jpg|thumb|upright|A Norwegian soldier with the FGM-148 Javelin]]
[[File:Javelin Firing Positions MOD 45162586.jpg|thumb|UK Javelin with tripod]]

===Current operators===
* {{flag|Australia}}: 92 launchers.<ref name="WD Almanac 2010">{{cite book |title=The World Defence Almanac 2010 |publisher=Monch Publishing Group |year=2010 |isbn=9781612000565 |location=Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, US |pages=136, 174, 184, 286, 298, 418, 423 |issn=0722-3226 |oclc=751805929}}</ref>
* {{flag|Bahrain}}: 13 launchers.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/2006/07/bahrain-requests-160-javelins-60-clus/index.php |title=Bahrain Requests 160 Javelins & 60 CLUs |access-date=8 February 2016 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070324155053/http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/2006/07/bahrain-requests-160-javelins-60-clus/index.php |archive-date=24 March 2007}}</ref>
* {{flag|Croatia}}:<ref>{{cite web | url=https://obris.org/hrvatska/morh-objavio-plan-nabave-u-2023-javelini-i-patrije-te-povratak-tajnosti/ | title=MORH objavio Plan nabave u 2023. – Javelini i Patrije, te povratak tajnosti }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.morh.hr/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/plan-nabave-2023._knjiga-br.-4.pdf|title=Network Scan Data|language=hr
|website=morh.hr|access-date=4 April 2023|date=January 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.europeafrica.army.mil/Newsroom/Photos/igphoto/2002269275/ | title=Expert Infantry Badge and Expert Soldier Badge training in Poland }}</ref> 
* {{flag|Czech Republic}}: Purchased 3 launchers and 12 missiles for its special forces, for use in Afghanistan.<ref>{{cite web |title=A-report |url=http://www.army.cz/avis/areport2005/ar2str.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090227003733/http://www.army.cz/avis/areport2005/ar2str.pdf |archive-date=27 February 2009 |archive-format=PDF |access-date=25 February 2022 |publisher=[[Ministry of Defence (Czech Republic)|The Ministry of Defence of the Czech Republic]] |language=cs |publication-place=Prague, Czech Republic}}</ref> An additional order totaling US$10.21 million was placed in December 2015 for 50 missiles and 3 launchers.<ref>{{cite web|title = Czech Republic to buy Javelin ATGWs {{!}} IHS Jane's 360|url = http://www.radiodixie.cz/clanek/fgm-148-javelin-americka-protitankova-raketa-v-ceske-armade|website = RadioDixie|date =  7 December 2015|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20220819011907/http://www.radiodixie.cz/clanek/fgm-148-javelin-americka-protitankova-raketa-v-ceske-armade |archive-date = 19 August 2022|url-status = live}}</ref>
* {{flag|Estonia}}: 80 CLU, with option for additional 40, and 350 missiles purchased from the United States. In service from 2016.<ref>{{cite news |last=Einmann |first=Andres |date=18 November 2014 |title=Eesti saab Javelini tankitõrjesüsteemid järgmisel aastal |language=et |trans-title=Estonia will receive Javelin anti-tank systems next year |work=[[Postimees]]  |publication-place=Tallinn, Estonia |url=https://www.postimees.ee/2996135/eesti-saab-javelini-tankitorjesusteemid-jargmisel-aastal |url-status=live |access-date=19 January 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180119235317/https://www.postimees.ee/2996135/eesti-saab-javelini-tankitorjesusteemid-jargmisel-aastal |archive-date=19 January 2018}}</ref>
* {{flag|France}}: 76 launchers and 260 missiles for use in Afghanistan.<ref name="WD Almanac 2010"/> Was replacing [[MILAN]] anti-tank missile,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.strategypage.com/htmw/htarm/20121021.aspx |title=Armor: Missing Milans In Gaza |website=Strategypage.com |date=21 October 2012 |access-date=30 May 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170926042220/https://www.strategypage.com/htmw/htarm/20121021.aspx |archive-date=26 September 2017 |url-status=live}}</ref> no follow-on order in favor of the [[Missile Moyenne Portée]] (MMP).<ref>{{cite news |last=Pierre |first=Tran |date=5 December 2015 |title=France Orders Anti-Tank Missile from MBDA |work=[[Defense News]] |publisher=[[Sightline Media Group]] |location=Tysons, Virginia, US |url=http://www.defensenews.com/article/20131205/DEFREG01/312050024/France-Orders-Anti-Tank-Missile-from-MBDA |url-status=dead |access-date=25 February 2022 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20131207163353/http://www.defensenews.com/article/20131205/DEFREG01/312050024/France-Orders-Anti-Tank-Missile-from-MBDA |archive-date=7 December 2013}}</ref>
* {{flag|Georgia}}: 72 CLUs and 410 missiles received in 2018, and the delivery of another 46 CLUs and 82 missiles approved in 2021. The first [[Foreign Military Sales|Foreign Military Sale]] to the Georgian military consisting of 410 missiles, and 72 CLUs, includes 2 Javelin Block 1 CLUs to be used as spares was approved for US$75 million.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://weaponews.com/news/20511-the-u-s-congress-approved-the-sale-of-the-georgia-anti-tank-systems-ja.html|title=The U.S. Congress approved the sale of the Georgia anti-tank systems "javelin"|date=20 December 2017 |access-date=20 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171222053816/http://weaponews.com/news/20511-the-u-s-congress-approved-the-sale-of-the-georgia-anti-tank-systems-ja.html|archive-date=22 December 2017|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://dsm.forecastinternational.com/wordpress/2019/04/04/georgia-receives-all-javelin-missile-systems|title=Georgia Receives All Javelin Missile Systems|publisher=Forecast International|first=Derek|last=Bisaccio|date=4 April 2019|access-date=5 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190423155244/https://dsm.forecastinternational.com/wordpress/2019/04/04/georgia-receives-all-javelin-missile-systems/ |archive-date=23 April 2019|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2021, 46 CLUs and 82 missiles were ordered, for US$30 million.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.thedefensepost.com/2021/08/05/us-javelin-missiles-georgia/|title = US Approves Javelin Missile Sale to Georgia in Deal Worth $30 Million|date = 5 August 2021}}</ref>
* {{flag|Indonesia}}: 25 launchers and 189 missiles of Javelin Block 1 variant, in a US$60 million deal.<ref>{{cite web|date=19 August 2014|title=FGM-148 Javelin Block I: Fire and Forget Dengan Pemandu Infra Red|url=https://www.indomiliter.com/fgm-148-javelin-block-i-fire-and-forget-dengan-pemandu-infra-red/|access-date=9 February 2021|website=Indomiliter.com}}</ref>
* {{flag|Ireland}}: [[Irish Army]], it replaced the MILAN anti-tank missile.<ref name="jones2009">Jones, Richard D. ''Jane's Infantry Weapons 2009/2010''. Jane's Information Group; 35 edition (27 January 2009). {{ISBN|978-0-7106-2869-5}}.</ref>
* {{flag|Jordan}}: 30 launchers and 116 missiles were received in 2004. 162 CLUs, 18 Fly-to-Buy Missiles, 1,808 Javelin Anti-Tank Guided Missiles and other support equipment was ordered in 2009. The estimated cost is $388 million.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.defenseworld.net/go/defensenews.jsp?id=3887 |title=Jordan to buy Javelin anti-tank missiles from USA of worth $388 million |access-date=8 February 2016 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120306075004/http://www.defenseworld.net/go/defensenews.jsp?id=3887 |archive-date=6 March 2012}}</ref> Jordan placed another order of $133.9 million in 2017.<ref>{{cite web|title=Raytheon/Lockheed secure contract for foreign Javelin missile sales|url=https://www.upi.com/Defense-News/2017/08/16/RaytheonLockheed-secure-contract-for-foreign-Javelin-missile-sales/1061502887882/|access-date=21 June 2021|website=UPI}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Scott|first=Nicholas|title=Lockheed-Raytheon JV Awarded $134M to Supply 3 FMS Clients With Javelin Equipment|url=https://www.govconwire.com/2017/08/lockheed-raytheon-jv-awarded-134m-to-supply-3-fms-clients-with-javelin-equipment/|website=Gov Con Wire|date=16 August 2017}}</ref> 
* {{flag|Libya}}: Used by the [[Libyan National Army]]<ref name="Libya"/>
* {{flag|Lithuania}}: Total: 144 CLU and 871 missiles purchased from the United States.<ref>{{cite web |title=Raketų paleidimo sistema "JAVELIN" |trans-title=JAVELIN missile launch system |url=https://kariuomene.kam.lt/lt/ginkluote_ir_karine_technika/granatsvaidziai_ir_priestankiniai_ginklai/raketu_paleidimo_sistema_bdquojavelinrdquo.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160401052607/http://kariuomene.kam.lt/lt/ginkluote_ir_karine_technika/granatsvaidziai_ir_priestankiniai_ginklai/raketu_paleidimo_sistema_bdquojavelinrdquo.html |archive-date=1 April 2016 |access-date=25 February 2022 |website=kariuomene.kam.lt |publisher=[[Lithuanian Armed Forces]] |language=lt}}</ref> In 2001, 40 launchers and 200 missiles. The first European country to receive this launcher and missile system in 2001.<ref name="WD Almanac 2010"/> In December 2015 [[Defense Security Cooperation Agency|DSCA]] approved for a possible Foreign Military Sale to Lithuania for another 220 missiles and 74 CLUs for $55 million, plus 30 CLU and 350 missiles in 2026.<ref>{{cite press release |title=Lithuania-Javelin Missiles and Command Launch Units |publisher=Defense Security Cooperation Agency |url=https://www.dsca.mil/sites/default/files/mas/lithuania_16-11.pdf |access-date=20 September 2023}}</ref>
* {{flag|New Zealand}}: 24 launchers and 390 missiles, in batches of 120, then 270.<ref name="WD Almanac 2010"/>
* {{flag|Norway}}: 100 launchers and 526 missiles. Delivered from 2006, in use from 2009.<ref name="WD Almanac 2010"/> In 2017 Norwegian authorities started the process of finding a replacement anti-tank weapon, in order to counter new types of heavy tanks equipped with [[active protection system]]s capable of defeating missiles like the Javelin.<ref>{{cite news |last=Marcus |first=Jonathan |title=Should Russia's new Armata T-14 tanks worry Nato? |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-40083641 |work=BBC News |date=30 May 2017 |access-date=30 May 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170530152617/http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-40083641 |archive-date=30 May 2017 |url-status=live}}</ref>
* {{flag|Oman}}: 30 launchers.<ref name="WD Almanac 2010"/>
* {{flag|Poland}}: 110 launchers, 680 missiles.<ref>{{Cite web |date=3 February 2023 |title=Poland orders more Javelin missiles |url=https://www.janes.com/osint-insights/defence-news/industry/poland-orders-more-javelin-missiles |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Janes.com |language=en}}</ref>
* {{flag|Qatar}}: In March 2013, Qatar requested the sale of 500 Javelin missiles and 50 command launch units.<ref>{{cite news |date=28 March 2013 |title=FMS: Qatar Requests Sales of 500 Javelin Anti-Tank Missile Rounds and 50 Launch Units |work=Deagel.com |url=https://www.deagel.com/news/n000011357 |access-date=25 February 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130404012335/http://www.deagel.com/news/FMS-Qatar-Requests-Sales-of-500-Javelin-Anti-Tank-Missile-Rounds-and-50-Launch-Units_n000011357.aspx |archive-date=4 April 2013}}</ref> The deal was signed in March 2014.<ref>{{cite news |last=Mustafa |first=Awad |date=27 March 2014 |title=$23.9B in Deals Announced on Last Day of DIMDEX |work=[[Defense News]] |publisher=[[Sightline Media Group]] |location=Tysons, Virginia, US |url=http://www.defensenews.com/article/20140327/DEFREG04/303270033/-23-9B-Deals-Announced-Last-Day-DIMDEX |url-status=dead |access-date=25 February 2022 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20140329152247/http://www.defensenews.com/article/20140327/DEFREG04/303270033/-23-9B-Deals-Announced-Last-Day-DIMDEX |archive-date=29 March 2014 }}</ref>
* {{flag|Saudi Arabia}}: 20 launchers and 150 missiles.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.dsca.mil/major-arms-sales/kingdom-saudi-arabia-javelin-missiles |title=Kingdom of Saudi Arabia – JAVELIN Missiles &#124; The Official Home of the Defense Security Cooperation Agency |website=Dsca.mil |date=18 November 2010 |access-date=30 May 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170527235626/https://www.dsca.mil/major-arms-sales/kingdom-saudi-arabia-javelin-missiles |archive-date=27 May 2017 |url-status=live}}</ref>
* {{flag|Taiwan}}: In 2002, Taiwan bought 360 missiles and 40 launcher units for $39 million. The contract included training devices, logistics support, associated equipment and training.<ref>{{cite web |date=24 July 2002 |title=Taiwan Agrees to Purchase Raytheon-Lockheed Martin Javelin Anti-tank Weapon System |url=http://www.missilesandfirecontrol.com/our_news/pressreleases/02pressrelease/072402_JAVELIN.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070327103457/http://www.missilesandfirecontrol.com/our_news/pressreleases/02pressrelease/072402_JAVELIN.htm |archive-date=27 March 2007 |access-date=25 February 2022 |website=missilesandfirecontrol.com |publisher=[[Lockheed Martin]] |location=Bethesda, Maryland, US |publication-place=Tucson, Arizona, US}}</ref> In 2008, the United States issued a congressional notification for the sale of a further 20 launchers and 182 more missiles.<ref>{{cite web|date=3 October 2008 |url=http://www.dsca.mil/PressReleases/36-b/2008/Taiwan_08-70.pdf |title=Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States – JAVELIN Guided Missile Systems |publisher=DSCA |access-date=5 October 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110716024800/http://www.dsca.mil/PressReleases/36-b/2008/Taiwan_08-70.pdf |archive-date=16 July 2011 |archive-format=PDF}}</ref>
* {{flag|Turkey}}<ref>{{Cite book |last=The International Institute for Strategic Studies |title=The Military Balance 2023 |publisher=Routledge |year=2023 |pages=142}}</ref>
* {{flag|Tunisia}}<ref name="BRATUN"/>
* {{flag|Ukraine}}: Over 8,000 Javelin anti-armor systems.<ref>{{Cite web |title=News |url=https://www.defense.gov/News |access-date=2023-02-03 |website=U.S. Department of Defense |language=en-US}}</ref>
* {{flag|United Arab Emirates}}<ref name="WD Almanac 2010"/>
* {{flag|United Kingdom}}: The [[Ministry of Defence (United Kingdom)|UK Ministry of Defence]] purchased 850 Javelin units and 9,000 missiles for the Light Forces Anti-Tank Guided Weapon System (LFATGWS) requirement. Javelin entered UK service in 2005, replacing the [[MILAN]] and [[Swingfire]] systems.<ref name="army-technology.com"/><ref>{{cite web |date=28 July 2005 |title=New Shoulder-Launched Missile Enters Service Four Months Early |url=http://www.gnn.gov.uk/content/detail.asp?NewsAreaID=2&ReleaseID=165224 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080303111944/http://www.gnn.gov.uk/content/detail.asp?NewsAreaID=2&ReleaseID=165224 |archive-date=3 March 2008 |access-date=25 February 2022 |website=Government News Network}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.army.mod.uk/equipment/support-weapons/1471.aspx |title=Javelin Medium Range Anti-tank Guided Weapon |access-date=8 October 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130110082834/http://www.army.mod.uk/equipment/support-weapons/1471.aspx |archive-date=10 January 2013}}</ref>
* {{flag|United States}}: Although not officially reported, budget records indicate that the US had 20,000 to 25,000 Javelin units on hand in 2021, prior to the Russian invasion of Ukraine.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Mark |first1=Cancian |title=Will the United States Run Out of Javelins Before Russia Runs Out of Tanks? |url=https://www.csis.org/analysis/will-united-states-run-out-javelins-russia-runs-out-tanks |website=Center for Strategic and International Studies |date=12 April 2022 |publisher=CSIS |access-date=9 October 2022}}</ref>

=== Future operators ===
* {{flag|Albania}}: In May 2022, Lockheed Martin received orders from several international customers including Norway, Albania, Latvia and Thailand.<ref name="Lockheed Press Release">{{Cite web |title=U.S. Army Awards Contracts for Javelin Anti-Tank Weapon Systems |url=https://news.lockheedmartin.com/2022-05-16-us-army-awards-contracts-for-javelin-anti-tank-weapon-systems |access-date=2022-05-18 |website=Media - Lockheed Martin |language=en-us}}</ref> The purchase was confirmed a few days later by the [[Ministry of Defence (Albania)|Ministry of Defence]], [[Niko Peleshi]] for yet an undisclosed number and contract value of the system.<ref>{{Cite web |title=E konfirmon edhe Peleshi: Shqipëria do të armatoset me antitankun më të mirë në botë |url=https://a2news.com/2022/05/21/e-konfirmon-edhe-peleshi-shqiperia-do-te-armatoset-me-antitankun-me-te-mire-ne-bote/ |access-date=2022-05-21 |website=a2news.com |date=21 May 2022 |language=sq-AL}}</ref>
* {{flagicon|BRA}} [[Brazil]]: 33 launchers and 222 missiles.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Brazil – Javelin Missiles {{!}} Defense Security Cooperation Agency |url=https://www.dsca.mil/press-media/major-arms-sales/brazil-javelin-missiles |access-date=2022-08-10 |website=www.dsca.mil}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=23 December 2024|title=Exército quer comprar uma centena de mísseis Javelin americanos e fechar contrato de novos blindados|url=https://www.estadao.com.br/politica/marcelo-godoy/exercito-quer-comprar-uma-centena-de-misseis-javelin-americanos-e-fechar-contrato-de-novos-blindados/|website=[[O Estado de São Paulo]]|language=pt}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=28 February 2025|title=Exército Brasileiro adquire mísseis anticarro Javelin|url=https://tecnodefesa.com.br/exercito-adquire-misseis-anticarro-javelin/|website=Tecnodefesa|language=pt}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=28 February 2025|title=El Ejército de Brasil adquiere misiles antitanque Javelin|url=https://www.pucara.org/post/el-ej%C3%A9rcito-de-brasil-adquiere-misiles-antitanque-javelin|website=Pucará Defensa|language=es}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=28 February 2025|title=Exército Brasileiro formaliza a aquisição do míssil Javelin|url=https://www.defesaaereanaval.com.br/exercito/exercito-brasileiro-formaliza-a-aquisicao-do-missil-javelin|website=Defesa Aérea e Naval|language=pt}}</ref><ref name="BRATUN">{{Cite web |title=US Army Awards the Javelin Joint Venture $900.5M Contract |url=https://news.lockheedmartin.com/2025-09-03-us-army-awards-the-javelin-joint-venture-875-6m-contract |date=3 September 2025 |website=Lockheed Martin}}</ref>
* {{BUL}}: Bulgaria is buying 218 FGM-148F Javelin missiles and 107 Javelin Lightweight Command Launch Units for its [[M1296 Dragoon|Stryker Dragoon]] vehicles for $114 million.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Bulgaria – FGM-148F Javelin Missiles {{!}} Defense Security Cooperation Agency |url=https://www.dsca.mil/press-media/major-arms-sales/bulgaria-fgm-148f-javelin-missiles |access-date=2025-02-26 |website=www.dsca.mil}}</ref>
* {{flag|Kosovo}}: In January 2024, the State Department approved a purchase of 246 Javelin FGM-148F anti-tank missiles and 6 testing missiles and 24 Command Launch Units (CLU), worth $75 million.<ref>{{Cite web |title=KOSOVO – JAVELIN MISSILES |url=https://www.dsca.mil/press-media/major-arms-sales/kosovo-javelin-missiles |access-date=2024-01-12}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=DASH: Vlera e raketave kundërtanke që Kosova dëshiron t'i blejë është 75 milionë dollarë |url=https://www.evropaelire.org/a/dash-raketat-javelin-kosova-/32770735.html |access-date=2024-01-11 |website=www.evropaelire.org}}</ref>
* {{flag|Latvia}}: In May 2022, Lockheed Martin received orders from several international customers including Norway, Albania, Latvia and Thailand.<ref name="Lockheed Press Release"/><ref>{{Cite news |date=2022-05-17 |title=Lockheed-Raytheon JV wins $309 mln Javelin missile contract from U.S. army |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/lockheed-martin-wins-309-million-javelin-missile-contract-us-army-2022-05-16/ |access-date=2022-05-18}}</ref>
* {{MOR}}: In March 2024, the US State Department approved a potential $260 million sale of Javelin missiles and related equipment to Morocco. The deal includes 612 FGM-148F missiles and 200 Lightweight Command Launch Units (LWCLUs).<ref name="Morocco Javelin">{{cite web|url=https://www.dsca.mil/press-media/major-arms-sales/morocco-javelin-missiles|title=MOROCCO – JAVELIN MISSILES|language=en|work=Defense Security Cooperation Agency|date=19 March 2024}}</ref>
* {{ROU}}: In December 2023, the US State Department approved a potential $80 million sale of Javelin missiles and related equipment to Romania. Romania requested to buy 263 Javelin FGM-148F missiles and 26 Javelin Light Weight Command Launch Units.<ref name="Javelin">{{cite web|url=https://www.dsca.mil/press-media/major-arms-sales/romania-javelin-missiles|title=Romania – Javelin Missiles|language=en|work=Defense Security Cooperation Agency|date=12 December 2023}}</ref>
* {{flag|Thailand}}: In July 2021, the US State Department announced a possible Foreign Military Sale to Thailand, of 300 Javelin FGM-148 Missiles and 50 Javelin Command Launch Units (CLU), worth $83.5 million.<ref>{{cite web|last=Grevatt|first=Jon|date=8 February 2021|title=US approves Javelin sale to Thailand|url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/us-approves-javelin-sale-to-thailand|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210802145546/https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/us-approves-javelin-sale-to-thailand|archive-date=2 August 2021|access-date=8 February 2021|website=Janes Defense News}}</ref>

=== Potential operators ===

* {{flag|India}}: In 2010, India considered purchasing some systems off-the-shelf, with a larger number to be license manufactured locally through "transfer of technology" (ToT).<ref>{{cite news |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/India-to-order-large-number-of-Javelin-anti-tank-missiles-from-US/articleshow/6320750.cms |first1=Rajat |last1=Pandit |title=India to order large number of Javelin anti-tank missiles from US |date=17 August 2010 |access-date=2 July 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120912002202/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2010-08-17/india/28273102_1_nag-missile-konkurs-atgms-anti-tank |archive-date=12 September 2012 |work=[[The Times of India]] |url-status=live}}</ref> The United States was reluctant to provide a full ToT.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Israel-pips-US-in-anti-tank-guided-missile-supply-to-India/articleshow/17407482.cms |first1=Rajat |last1=Pandit |title=Israel pips US in anti-tank guided missile supply to India |date=29 November 2012 |access-date=2 July 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130928033825/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-11-29/india/35434262_1_namicas-konkurs-nag-missile |archive-date=28 September 2013 |work=[[The Times of India]] |url-status=live}}</ref> Eventually, the plan to purchase Javelins was "shelved". In October 2014, India chose to buy the Israeli [[Spike (missile)|Spike missile]] system.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.defensenews.com/article/20140816/DEFREG03/308160021 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20140816213058/http://www.defensenews.com/article/20140816/DEFREG03/308160021 |url-status=dead |archive-date=16 August 2014 |title=Too Early To Assess Indo-US Defense Ties |last1=Raghuvanshi |first1=Vivek |date=16 August 2014 |website=Defensenews.com |publisher=Gannett |access-date=16 August 2014}}</ref> However, as of July 2025, India was again considering an emergency procurement of the Javelin ATGM. Negotiations for a larger deal for the ATGM is also underway.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Samanta |first=Pranab Dhal |date=2025-07-10 |title=India looks to US for urgent weapons after Operation Sindoor strikes |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/india-looks-to-us-for-urgent-weapons-after-operation-sindoor-strikes/articleshow/122349623.cms |access-date=2025-07-12 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2025-07-14 |title=LCA Tejas on fast track: GE to supply two F404 engines a month; India plans to buy Javelin missiles, Stryker vehicles, says Def Secy |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/lca-tejas-on-fast-track-ge-to-supply-two-f404-engines-a-month-india-plans-to-buy-javelin-missiles-stryker-vehicles-says-def-secy/articleshow/122429275.cms |access-date=2025-07-15 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}</ref> On 16 July, it was reported that India has sent a [[Letter of Request]] to the US for the co-production of the missile system in India.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Trivedi |first=Saurabh |date=2025-07-16 |title=India submits letter of request to U.S. for co-production of Javelin missiles |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-submits-letter-of-request-to-us-for-co-production-of-javelin-missiles/article69817598.ece |access-date=2025-07-16 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref> As of 22 October, the [[Indian army|Indian Army]] is considering the fast track procurement of 12 launchers and 104 missiles.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Singh |first=Rahul |date=2025-10-22 |title=New weapons, specialist units to boost army’s capabilities |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/new-weapons-specialist-units-to-boost-army-s-capabilities-101761147308953.html |access-date=2025-10-22 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en}}</ref> As of 20 November, the [[Defense Security Cooperation Agency]] (DSCA) approved the supply of 100 missiles and 25 launcher control units at a cost of $46&nbsp;million along with 216 [[M982 Excalibur|Excalibur artillery shells]] at a cost of $47&nbsp;million.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sharma |first=Rohit |date=2025-11-20 |title=US approves $93m deal for anti-tank missiles, precision artillery to India |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/world/story/us-approves-javelin-and-excalibur-arms-sale-to-india-glbs-2822810-2025-11-20 |access-date=2025-11-20 |website=India Today |language=en}}</ref>
* {{flag|Philippines}}: In a [[Manila Bulletin]] article published in August 25, 2025, the [[Philippine Army]] chief Lt. Gen. Antonio G. Nafarrete mentioned that the military is in the process of acquiring defense articles, and Javelin anti-tank missile systems is one of the articles mentioned.<ref>https://mb.com.ph/2025/08/25/lt-gen-antonio-g-nafarrete-the-making-of-a-philippine-army-chief</ref>

==See also==
* [[List of anti-tank missiles]]
* [[Escadrone]], a Ukrainian manufacturing group which develops low-cost alternative for destroying armored vehicles 
* [[Saint Javelin]]

'''Comparable fire-and-forget systems'''
* [[Akeron MP]], by [[MBDA|MBDA France]] (France)
* [[AT-1K Raybolt]], by [[Hanwha Vision]] and [[LIG Nex1]] (South Korea)
* [[HJ-12]], by [[Norinco]] (China)
* [[MPATGM]], by [[DRDO]] (India)
* {{lwc|OMTAS}} 
* [[Karaok]] (Turkey)
* [[Spike (missile)|Spike]], by Rafael Defense (Israel)
* [[Type 01 LMAT]], by [[Kawasaki Heavy Industries]] (Japan)

'''Comparable [[laser beam riding|beam riding]] systems'''
* [[Skif (anti-tank guided missile)|Skif or Stuhna-P]], by [[Luch Design Bureau]] (Ukraine), not fire-and-forget capable
* [[9M133 Kornet]], by [[KBP Instrument Design Bureau]] (Russia). The Kornet EM version have fire-and-forget capable

'''Comparable shorter range fire-and-forget systems'''
* {{lwc|Alcotán-100}} 
* {{lwc|NLAW}} 
* {{lwc|FGM-172 SRAW}}

'''Related development'''
* [[AGM-176 Griffin]], shared components by Raytheon
'''Other'''
* [[Starstreak]]
* [[RPG-7]]

==References==
{{Reflist|30em}}

==External links==
{{Commons and category|FGM-148 Javelin}}
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20080120110001/http://www.missilesandfirecontrol.com/our_products/antiarmor/JAVELIN/product-JAVELIN.shtml Javelin], Lockheed Martin (archived from [http://www.missilesandfirecontrol.com/our_products/antiarmor/JAVELIN/product-JAVELIN.shtml the original] on 2008-01-20)
* [http://www.designation-systems.net/dusrm/m-148.html Designation Systems]
* [http://www.fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/land/javelin.htm FAS article on Javelin]
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6qHL7jET8Gc Javelin tank killer]

{{US missiles}}
{{ModernUKInfWeaponsNav}}
{{ModernUSInfWeaponsNav}}
{{Current French infantry weapons}}
{{Raytheon}}
{{Lockheed Martin}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Fgm-148 Javelin}}
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[[Category:Raytheon Company products]]
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[[Category:Fire-and-forget weapons]]