Companies look to tank-launched guided projectiles for non-line-of-sight effects
Akeron MBT 120 non-line-of-sight (NLoS) missile would be fired from a tank’s 120mm smoothbore gun. (Image: MBDA)
While integration of guided weapons on modern armoured vehicles usually takes the form of a podded launcher on the turret exterior, recent developments suggest the concept of firing missiles from a tank’s main gun could be seeing a revival.
The recent disclosure that MBDA was working on the Akeron MBT 120 non-line-of-sight (NLoS) missile for main battle tanks (MBTs) armed with a 120mm smoothbore gun has once again highlighted the advantages and disadvantages of gun-launched guided projectiles (GLGPs).
Key platforms for this capability could be the KNDS Deutschland Leopard 2 or Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land Challenger 3 MBTs.
Traditionally, MBTs can only engage with targets in a direct line of sight (LoS), while the ability to strike battlefield targets, including hostile MBTs, beyond LoS (BLoS) is a significant additional capability. This would enable MBTs to start to neutralise threat
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Land Warfare
-
![World Defense Show 2026: DOK-ING working on MV-8 variants and reveals specs ahead of Eurosatory]()
World Defense Show 2026: DOK-ING working on MV-8 variants and reveals specs ahead of Eurosatory
The Croatian company began the development of the MV-8 modular uncrewed platform in the early 2020s. Specifications for the vehicle were revealed to Shephard at World Defense Show 2026.
-
![World Defense Show 2026: Turkish and European industries will cooperate, says Aselsan boss]()
World Defense Show 2026: Turkish and European industries will cooperate, says Aselsan boss
Aselsan was formed 50 years ago in response to difficulties Turkey was facing in sourcing major systems internationally. While some challenges still remain, company president Ahmet Akyol believes a rapprochement is possible.
-
![World Defense Show 2026: MARSS displays new Nation Shield air defence C2 system]()
World Defense Show 2026: MARSS displays new Nation Shield air defence C2 system
Nation Shield is the latest iteration of the MARSS C2 system and is designed to provide C2 further forward along with more capable air defence.
