Russia Develops New Guided Missile 9M134 for Kornet Anti-Tank System

Russian anti-tank systems are set to receive a significant upgrade with the development of a new type of ammunition capable of destroying armored vehicles. The Tula Instrument Design Bureau (KBP), part of the High Precision Systems holding, is currently working on a lightweight guided missile, the 9M134, aimed at enhancing the capabilities of existing anti-tank systems.

This new missile is distinguished by its lightness, weighing approximately four times less than the current missiles in the Kornet family. This weight reduction significantly increases the amount of ammunition a team can carry, thus improving the reactivity and mobility of anti-tank units in the field.

However, the 9M134 is not designed to target heavy armored vehicles. It is instead optimized for the destruction of medium-armored targets, including those equipped with reactive armor, as well as lightly armored or unarmored vehicles. This specificity makes it particularly suited to environments where mobility and discretion are prioritized.

Technically, the 9M134 missile can reach targets up to a distance of 3.5 kilometers. It is equipped with a tandem warhead and a noiseless guidance system, controlled by a laser beam. The warhead’s penetration capacity is 250 mm, whether the target is equipped with dynamic protection or not. The missile, which measures 831 mm in length in its container, has a caliber of 82 mm. The total mass of the missile in its container is 6.5 kg, with 1.6 kg for the warhead alone.

While the exact stage of development of this missile is not clearly defined, the 9M134 was showcased at the Army-2024 forum, highlighting Russia’s ongoing commitment to anti-tank defense innovation. This technological advancement could redefine the parameters of anti-tank engagement, offering increased flexibility without compromising the necessary firepower on the modern battlefield.