Fgm-148 Javelin Cost

Introduction to the FGM-148 Javelin

The FGM-148 Javelin is a portable fire-and-forget anti-tank missile system used by the military to engage and destroy heavily armored vehicles. Developed by the American company Raytheon Missiles & Defense and Lockheed Martin, this missile system has been widely used by the US military and its allies since its introduction in the late 1990s. One of the key factors that affect the adoption and procurement of the Javelin system by military forces around the world is its cost.

Breakdown of the FGM-148 Javelin Cost

The cost of the FGM-148 Javelin system can be broken down into several components, including the missile itself, the command launch unit (CLU), and other associated costs such as training and logistics. The cost of a single Javelin missile is around 175,000 to 250,000, depending on the production lot and the specific variant. The CLU, which is the component that allows the user to target and launch the missile, costs around 125,000 to 150,000. Other costs, such as training and logistics, can add tens of thousands of dollars to the overall cost of the system.

Production Costs and Unit Prices

The production cost of the Javelin system has decreased over the years due to economies of scale and improvements in manufacturing efficiency. In the early 2000s, the unit price of a Javelin missile was around 300,000. However, as production volumes increased and the manufacturing process became more efficient, the unit price decreased to around 175,000 to $250,000 per missile. The table below provides a rough estimate of the production costs and unit prices of the Javelin system over the years.

Year	Production Volume	Unit Price per Missile
2000	1,000	$300,000
2005	5,000	$250,000
2010	10,000	$200,000
2015	15,000	$175,000

Operational Costs and Effectiveness

In addition to the procurement cost, the operational cost of the Javelin system is also an important factor to consider. The Javelin system has been shown to be highly effective in combat, with a hit rate of over 90% in some cases. The system’s fire-and-forget capability also allows users to quickly move to a new location after launching the missile, reducing their exposure to enemy fire. However, the operational cost of the system, including the cost of training and logistics, can be significant.

💡 Note: The operational cost of the Javelin system can vary widely depending on the specific context and deployment scenario.

Comparison with Other Anti-Tank Missile Systems

The FGM-148 Javelin is not the only anti-tank missile system available on the market. Other systems, such as the Russian 9M133 Kornet and the European MILAN, also offer similar capabilities. However, the Javelin system has several advantages, including its fire-and-forget capability and its high hit rate. The cost of these alternative systems can also vary widely, with some systems costing significantly more or less than the Javelin.

Future Developments and Upgrades

The FGM-148 Javelin system is continually being upgraded and improved, with new variants and capabilities being developed. For example, the Javelin Lightweight Command Launch Unit (LWCLU) is a newer variant of the CLU that is lighter and more compact, making it easier to use in the field. The cost of these upgrades and new variants can vary widely, depending on the specific capabilities and technologies being developed.

In the end, the cost of the FGM-148 Javelin system is just one factor to consider when evaluating its effectiveness and value as a military asset. Its high hit rate, fire-and-forget capability, and portability make it a valuable tool for military forces around the world. As the system continues to evolve and improve, its cost will likely remain an important consideration for military planners and procurement officials.