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| UMTAS Anti-Tank-Missile |
UMTAS, also known as Mizrak-U (Uzun Menzilli Tanksavar Sistemi), is a state-of-the-art, long-range anti-tank missile system developed by the Turkish defense giant ROKETSAN. Originally designed for the T-129 ATAK combat helicopter, it has evolved into a versatile weapon capable of being launched from air, land, and sea platforms.
Quick Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Air-to-surface & Surface-to-surface Anti-tank Missile |
| Origin | Turkey |
| Manufacturer | Roketsan A.Ş. |
| Mass / Length | 37.5 kg / 175 cm |
| Range | 500 m – 8,000 m |
| Guidance | IIR (UMTAS) or Semi-Active Laser (L-UMTAS) |
Background and Purpose
Initiated in 2003 by the Turkish Undersecretariat for Defence Industries (SSM), the UMTAS program aimed to equip the T-129 ATAK helicopters with an indigenous, high-precision guided missile. Designed to neutralize main battle tanks and heavily armored vehicles, its versatility allows it to be integrated into UAVs, land vehicles, and naval vessels.
Versions: UMTAS vs. L-UMTAS
- UMTAS (IIR): Uses an Imaging Infrared Seeker. It supports "Fire-and-Forget" and "Fire-and-Update" modes.
- L-UMTAS (Laser): A laser-guided version designed for high-precision strikes using laser designation.
Key Capabilities
- Tandem Warhead: Specifically designed to penetrate Explosive Reactive Armor (ERA).
- Fire Behind Mask: Allows launch from hidden positions, increasing platform survivability.
- Two-Way Data Link: Provides real-time seeker images, allowing for Lock-on After Launch (LOAL) and target switching.
- Attack Modes: Supports both Direct Attack and Top Attack (hitting the thin upper armor of a tank).
- All-Weather: Effective in day/night and adverse weather conditions.
Advanced Technical Features
Smokeless Propulsion
Uses HTPB-based solid propellant, which minimizes smoke, keeping the launch platform's position hidden from the enemy during engagement.
Standard Integration
Fully compatible with MIL-STD-1760 bus standards, allowing seamless integration with diverse aerial and ground platforms globally.
The IIR (Imaging Infrared) seeker provides high-resolution thermal imaging, enabling the missile to distinguish real targets from decoys or countermeasures, even in low-visibility environments or through smoke screens.
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| T-129 ATAK helicopters with UMTAS ATGM |
Strategic Significance
In terms of performance, the UMTAS is often compared to the American AGM-114 Hellfire and the Israeli Spike-ER. Its ability to perform Top Attack maneuvers makes it lethal even against the world's most advanced Main Battle Tanks (MBTs), as it strikes the thinnest part of the tank's armor.
Currently, the system is being integrated and used by several nations, with the Turkish Armed Forces being the primary operator. Its success on the Bayraktar TB2 has also drawn significant interest from international buyers looking for cost-effective precision-guided munitions.
Development and Combat Integration
The development journey of UMTAS reached a milestone in 2015 with the successful qualification. It has been integrated into the SH-60 Sea Hawk and the Bayraktar TB2 UCAV.
A notable test involved a Bayraktar TB2 hitting a 2×2 meter target from 8,000 meters away at an altitude of 16,000 ft. This success paved the way for the development of the MAM-L smart micro-munition, which was derived from L-UMTAS technology.
Conclusion: A New Era of Anti-Tank Warfare
The UMTAS (Mizrak-U) represents a significant leap in indigenous defense technology for Turkey and a formidable tool in modern electronic warfare. By combining long-range precision, all-weather reliability, and platform versatility, Roketsan has developed a system that rivals the best in its class globally.
Whether deployed from an attack helicopter, a naval vessel, or the battle-proven Bayraktar drones, its ability to bypass modern reactive armor and perform high-precision "Top Attack" strikes makes it a decisive factor on the battlefield. As more nations shift toward unmanned systems and precision-guided munitions, the UMTAS stands as a benchmark for high-performance, cost-effective anti-tank solutions.
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