9M119 Svir/Refleks

9M119 Svir/Refleks is a type of guided missile system developed and used by the Soviet Union and its successor states, primarily Russia. The system is designed to be fired from the main gun of a tank, providing a guided anti-tank capability. The 9M119 is known by its NATO reporting name as AT-11 Sniper for the Svir variant and Refleks for the export version. This missile system is notable for its use in modern armored warfare, offering a significant enhancement in the effectiveness of armored units.

Development and Features

The development of the 9M119 Svir/Refleks began in the late 1970s, with the aim of providing Soviet main battle tanks with an increased anti-tank capability beyond the range of traditional tank gun ammunition. The system entered service in the 1980s and has since been installed on a variety of tanks, including the T-72, T-80, and T-90 series.

The missile is launched from the tank's main gun, using a special propellant charge, and is guided to its target by a laser beam, which is controlled by the gunner. This guidance method allows for corrections to be made to the missile's flight path after launch, increasing the likelihood of a hit. The 9M119 missile is capable of engaging targets at ranges of up to 5 kilometers, depending on the variant and conditions.

Operational Use

The 9M119 system has seen use in several conflicts since its introduction. Its ability to engage and destroy enemy armored vehicles at long ranges has proven to be a valuable asset on the battlefield. The system's use in combat has demonstrated its effectiveness, although specific details on its operational history are often limited due to military secrecy.

Variants

There are several variants of the 9M119 missile system, including:

• 9M119 Svir - The original version, designed for use by the Soviet and Russian armed forces.
• 9M119M Refleks - An improved version with enhanced range and accuracy, intended for export.
• 9M119M1 - A further development with increased penetration capability against modern armor.

Technical Specifications

The 9M119 missile is approximately 5 meters long and weighs around 50 kilograms. It is capable of penetrating modern tank armor, making it a formidable weapon against even the most heavily protected targets. The missile's guidance system allows it to adjust its flight path in real-time, increasing its accuracy and lethality.

Conclusion

The 9M119 Svir/Refleks missile system represents a significant advancement in tank armament, providing a long-range, precision-guided anti-tank capability. Its development and operational use have demonstrated the importance of such systems in modern armored warfare, offering a combination of range, accuracy, and firepower that enhances the combat effectiveness of tanks equipped with this system.