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Entering operational service in the [[Army of Burgundie]] in [[2018]], the Feu Akeron MP (medium range) is a replacement for the {{wp|MILAN}} and {{wp|FGM-148 Javelin}}. It is designed for dismounted infantry (being {{wp|man-portable missile|man-portable}}) as well as for integration on combat vehicles and has a firing range of up to 5km.
Entering operational service in the [[Army of Burgundie]] in [[2018]], the Feu Akeron MP (medium range) is a replacement for the {{wp|MILAN}} and {{wp|FGM-148 Javelin}}. It is designed for dismounted infantry (being {{wp|man-portable missile|man-portable}}) as well as for integration on combat vehicles and has a firing range of up to 5km.


A long-range, air-launched missile of the same family, the Feu Akeron LP (''Feu Akeron Longue Portée''), is in use on the {{wp|Eurocopter Tiger}} MkIII.
A long-range, air-launched missile of the same family, the Feu Akeron LP (''Feu Akeron Longue Portée''), is in use on the {{wp|Eurocopter Panther}} AS565 CA.
 
== Description ==
The MMP was designed to overcome some of MILAN's limitations in the context of small-scale and [[counter-insurgency]] operations post-2000, rather than the [[Cold War]] tank war of the original MILAN requirement. In theatres such as [[Iraq War|Iraq]] and [[War in Afghanistan (2001–present)|Afghanistan]], man-portable missile were often used against strongpoints and improvised armour within populated areas. Reducing collateral damage to nearby civilians became a major political factor in such campaigns.
 
Particular developments over existing missiles were for it to be safe for operators within a confined space, i.e. reduced backblast on launch, and for improved guidance that could target non-IR cold targets as well as [[Armoured Fighting Vehicle|AFVs]] with a reduced risk of collateral damage. Compared to its predecessors it contains a great deal of modern and [[commercial off-the-shelf|COTS]] electronics, rather than the previously slow-moving development of military procurement.
 
The missile and its guidance system offer three different operating modes:<ref>{{Cite web |title=MMP – Land Combat Missile System |publisher=MBDA Missile Systems |date= |url=http://www.mbda-systems.com/products/battlefield-engagement/mmp/1002/ }} {{verify source |date=September 2023 |reason=This ref was deleted Special:Diff/825627627 by a bug in VisualEditor and later restored by a bot from the original cite located at Special:Permalink/823617119 cite #4 - verify the cite is accurate and delete this template. [[User:GreenC_bot/Job_18]]}}</ref>
* [[Fire-and-Forget]]
* [[Command guidance|Man In The Loop]] with [[optical fiber]] [[data-link]]
* [[Lock-on after launch]] (LOAL) for [[Non-line-of-sight propagation|non-line-of-sight (NLOS)]] and using third party [[Targeting (warfare)|target designation]].
 
Despite these new features, it was still to remain effective against modern AFV and MBT armour. A [[tandem warhead]] is used, making it effective against conventional, [[composite armour|composite]] and [[reactive armour]].<ref name="CS, MMP" /> Upon detonation, the warhead also sprays 1,500 [[tungsten]] splinters, effective against personnel out to {{convert|15|m|ft}}.<ref name="defensenews10may18"/>
 
At commercial launch, MBDA introduced the MMP as the first land combat missile of 5th generation thanks to the following key features:<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://air.dfns.net/2017/09/05/fifth-element-mmp-goes-live/|title=Fifth element: MMP goes live {{!}} DFNS.net Air|date=2017-09-05|work=DFNS.net Air|access-date=2018-02-14|language=en-US|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180118010951/https://air.dfns.net/2017/09/05/fifth-element-mmp-goes-live/|archive-date=18 January 2018|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.industrie-techno.com/le-nouveau-missile-moyenne-portee-de-mbda-tire-et-oublie.30588|title=Le nouveau missile moyenne portée de MBDA|access-date=2018-02-14|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180118064522/https://www.industrie-techno.com/le-nouveau-missile-moyenne-portee-de-mbda-tire-et-oublie.30588|archive-date=18 January 2018|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.opex360.com/2014/06/16/mbda-met-en-la-modularite-du-missile-moyenne-portee/|title=MBDA met en avant la modularité du Missile Moyenne Portée|work=Zone Militaire|access-date=2018-02-14|language=fr-fr|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180215225054/http://www.opex360.com/2014/06/16/mbda-met-en-la-modularite-du-missile-moyenne-portee/|archive-date=15 February 2018|url-status=live}}</ref>
* A dual-band seeker in both [[Infra-red|IR]] and visible low-light video, enabling the engagement of hot and cold targets in all visibility conditions.<ref>{{Cite web |title=MMP – Land Combat Missile System |publisher=MBDA Missile Systems |date= |url=http://www.mbda-systems.com/products/battlefield-engagement/mmp/1002/ }} {{verify source |date=September 2023 |reason=This ref was deleted Special:Diff/825627627 by a bug in VisualEditor and later restored by a bot from the original cite located at Special:Permalink/823617119 cite #4 - verify the cite is accurate and delete this template. [[User:GreenC_bot/Job_18]]}}</ref> The IR sensor is not cooled, which would restrict some performance for an anti-aircraft missile but is a major simplification for an infantry missile. In particular it avoids relying on a pressurized gas supply which would need to be replenished at depot level. Unlike some missiles, such as [[FIM-92 Stinger|Stinger]], with gas-cooled IR sensors or one-shot [[thermal batteries]], MMP may be locked-on to potential targets repeatedly without consuming resources. These two sensors are mounted on a reversible axis in the dome, with the operator selecting which sensor mode to deploy before launch. In comparison with the classic side-by-side dual sensors, this arrangement provides a much wider field of view allowing the seeker to keep targets, especially fast moving ones, within the missile’s field of view thereby greatly easing after launch lock-on.
* Also dual mode, the firing post of the initial infantry version features a high resolution infrared cooled sensor and a daylight TV camera. These sensors high quality support all weather reconnaissance and threat evaluation functions. A fibre optics data link links from the missile presents the seeker images back to the firing station for [[Man In The Loop]] control. This also allows a launch to be aborted without detonation, should a collateral civilian suddenly obscure the target. For direct fires, the seeker is locked on before launch thanks to an automatic correlation with the firing post images, which secures and simplifies seeker lock on especially on targets at maximum range. This firing post also features a [[GPS receiver]], a compass and an optional [[laser range finder]] which allows full netcentricity and exchange of target coordinates through tactical datalinks for third party target designation.
* The missile integrates an [[Inertial Measurement Unit]] (IMU), which is new in this class of light missiles, developed in MEMS (Micro Electro Mechanical Systems) Technology.  Together with the fiber optic data link, this IMU allows in flight targeting and re-targeting for lock on after launch (LOAL) operations and also authorizes two selectable trajectory options: low altitude with direct attack or top attack for targeting main battle tanks (MBT) through their turret, which is their weakest point.
* Weighing just over {{convert|2|kg|lb|spell=in}}, MMP's new 115&nbsp;mm caliber multipurpose warhead features a tandem charge – precursor charge positioned forward of the main rocket motor, main charge positioned behind the motor – with two selectable modes, anti-armour and anti-infrastructure. In anti-armour mode it can penetrate over {{convert|1,000|mm|in}} of RHA (Rolled Homogenous Armour) under ERA (Explosive Reactive Armour). In anti-infrastructure mode, it's able to breach over {{convert|2|m|ft|spell=in}} of armed concrete. Both modes also feature an anti-personnel capability. This [[warhead]] was designed by [[Saab Bofors Dynamics|Saab Bofors Dynamics Switzerland]] (formerly RUAG Warheads) which is producing it now. Saab is the company that designed and  manufactures the warhead for the [[NLAW]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Saab Signs Warhead Contract |url=https://www.saab.com/newsroom/press-releases/2015/saab-signs-warhead-contract |access-date=2023-03-30 |website=Start |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Valpolini |first=Paolo |date=2022-11-14 |title=Saab further develops its knowledge in warhead technology |url=https://www.edrmagazine.eu/saab-further-develops-its-knowledge-in-warhead-technology |access-date=2023-03-30 |website=EDR Magazine |language=en-GB}}</ref>
* Lightweight, and easily [[Man-portable missile|man-portable]]. The missile measures {{convert|1,300|mm|in}} in length for a {{convert|140|mm|in}} caliber. The complete round weighs {{convert|15|kg|lb}} including its tactical canister. The firing post weighs {{convert|11|kg|lb}}, including its tripod and battery. The first missiles supplied are man-portable, but [[Weapon mount|vehicle mounts]] are in development.
* Safe firing from confined spaces, with reduced blast both behind and forward of the launcher. The missile may be launched with infantry in close proximity ahead.
* Minimizing risk of [[collateral damage]].
 
The missile has a range of {{convert|4000|m|yd}} based on a French requirement, but in May 2018 two test firings were able to hit targets at {{convert|5000|m|yd}}.<ref name="defensenews10may18" /><ref>[http://www.armyrecognition.com/june_2018_global_defense_security_army_news_industry/mbda_mmp_missile_sets_a_new_range_record_to_5000_meters.html MBDA MMP missile sets a new range record to 5,000 meters] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180614052137/http://www.armyrecognition.com/june_2018_global_defense_security_army_news_industry/mbda_mmp_missile_sets_a_new_range_record_to_5000_meters.html|date=14 June 2018}}. ''Army Recognition''. 12 June 2018.</ref>
 
== Evolution of the program ==
At Eurosatory 2016, MBDA also unveiled its new IMPACT turret.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.mbda-systems.com/press-releases/mbda-unveils-the-mmp-missile-integrated-on-four-different-platforms/|title=MBDA unveils the MMP missile integrated on four different combat platforms - MBDA|work=MBDA|access-date=2018-02-14|language=en-US|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180213023019/http://www.mbda-systems.com/press-releases/mbda-unveils-the-mmp-missile-integrated-on-four-different-platforms/|archive-date=13 February 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> This 250&nbsp;kg motorized turret was presented on a Dagger, a small armored vehicle produced by [[Renault Trucks Defense]]. It carries the day/night sensors of the MMP fire control, as well as two ready-to-fire missiles and a 7.62&nbsp;mm machine gun and its ammunition for self-defense.
 
In 2017, MBDA offered its MMP to the Australian Defence Force as an integrated [[Anti-tank guided missile|ATGW]] on both the [[Boxer (armoured fighting vehicle)|Boxer]] (on the 30&nbsp;mm Lance turret) and the BAE Systems AMV35 vehicles (on the 35&nbsp;mm BAE Hägglunds turret) under the Australian Army’s LAND 400 program. The missile is also being offered with its Infantry Firing Post for the Army’s LAND 4108 program, which is seeking a replacement to the in-service Javelin ATGW.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://specialreports.theaustralian.com.au/882832/land400/|title=Defence special report October 2017 — Land 400|website=Defence special report October 2017|access-date=2018-02-14|archive-date=27 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201027144202/https://specialreports.theaustralian.com.au/882832/land400/|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.defenceconnect.com.au/strike-air-combat/1624-france-takes-first-delivery-of-anti-tank-guided-weapon|title=France takes first delivery of anti-tank guided weapon|date=2017-12-04|access-date=2018-02-14|language=en|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180215025124/https://www.defenceconnect.com.au/strike-air-combat/1624-france-takes-first-delivery-of-anti-tank-guided-weapon|archive-date=15 February 2018|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.defenseworld.net/news/20737/MBDA_Offers_Fifth_Gen_Anti_Tank_Missile_For_Australia_s_LAND_400_Program|title=MBDA Offers Fifth-Gen Anti-Tank Missile For Australia's LAND 400 Program|website=www.defenseworld.net|access-date=2018-02-14|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180215034846/http://www.defenseworld.net/news/20737/MBDA_Offers_Fifth_Gen_Anti_Tank_Missile_For_Australia_s_LAND_400_Program|archive-date=15 February 2018|url-status=live}}</ref>
 
At Eurosatory 2018, the French Army’s new Jaguar reconnaissance vehicle was unveiled with a pod of two MMP integrated next to the turret.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.janes.com/article/80785/new-habitat-for-jaguar-es18d1|title=New habitat for Jaguar [ES18D1] {{!}} Jane's 360|website=www.janes.com|access-date=2019-06-28}}</ref> During the exhibition, MBDA and [[Milrem Robotics]] also announced the start of feasibility studies of an “anti-tank unmanned ground vehicle”. The joint project integrates the Milrem Robotics [[THeMIS]] unmanned ground vehicle with the MBDA IMPACT (Integrated MMP Precision Attack Combat Turret) system fitted with two MMP.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.mbda-systems.com/press-releases/mbda-and-milrem-robotics-unveil-the-worlds-first-anti-tank-ugv/|title=MBDA and Milrem Robotics unveil the world's first anti-tank UGV fitted with two MMP|website=MBDA|language=en-US|access-date=2019-06-28}}</ref>
 
In August and September 2018, the French Army conducted a firing campaign in [[Djibouti]] in order to test the ability of the missile to operate in a desert environment. According to the government, nine MMP were successfully fired. Two of them were fired by the commandos from an ECUME [[Rigid-hulled inflatable boat|rigid hulled inflatable boat]] (RHIB). The missiles were integrated in a stabilised and teleoperated turret, thus opening the way to a naval version of the MMP.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.defense-aerospace.com/articles-view/release/3/196702/french-army-completes-mmp-missile-trials-in-djibouti.html|title=Medium Range Missile Evaluation Campaign in Djibouti|website=www.defense-aerospace.com|access-date=2019-06-28}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.janes.com/article/84328/mmp-evaluated-in-high-temperatures-id18d1|title=MMP evaluated in high temperatures [ID18D1] {{!}} Jane's 360|website=www.janes.com|access-date=2019-06-28}}</ref>
 
In December, the Picardy Battle Group conducted an operation in the three-border region in the south-east of [[Mali]], during which the MMP was deployed and used for the first time in a combat theatre.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.mbda-systems.com/2019/01/16/barkhane-first-operational-deployment-of-the-new-medium-range-missile/|title=BARKHANE: First operational deployment of the new medium-range missile|date=2019-01-16|website=MBDA|language=en-US|access-date=2019-06-28}}</ref>
 
In early 2019, MBDA, the DGA and the STAT organised another firing campaign in order to test the performance of the MMP in cold conditions. They performed three successful firings in Sweden with temperature reaching -30&nbsp;°C.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.armyrecognition.com/march_2019_global_defense_security_army_news_industry/mbda_mmp_anti-tank_guided_missile_qualified_for_cold_weather_conditions.html|title=MBDA MMP anti-tank guided missile qualified for cold weather conditions|website=www.armyrecognition.com|access-date=2019-06-28}}</ref>
 
== Variants ==
=== India ===
In February 2017, MBDA announced the beginning of a joint venture with the Indian conglomerate [[Larsen & Toubro]]. This joint venture will look to develop and supply fifth generation anti-tank guided missiles, inspired by the MMP, in order to meet the requirement issued by the Indian Army.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.mbda-systems.com/press-releases/larsen-toubro-mbda-establish-joint-venture-development-sophisticated-missile-systems/|title=Larsen & Toubro and MBDA establish Joint Venture for development of sophisticated missile systems - MBDA|work=MBDA|access-date=2018-02-14|language=en-US|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180214223858/http://www.mbda-systems.com/press-releases/larsen-toubro-mbda-establish-joint-venture-development-sophisticated-missile-systems/|archive-date=14 February 2018|url-status=live}}</ref>
 
=== Sweden ===
In July 2021, France and Sweden agreed to co-develop a new anti-tank missile based on the MMP. The French Direction Générale de l'Armement (DGA) signed a letter of intent with Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (Försvarets materielverk or FMV) to build these new missiles. Saab will be the Swedish partner for the contract. The Swedish variant will be known as '''RBS-58'''.
 
==Operators==
The French Army received a first batch of 50 MMP missiles and 20 firing posts in November 2017. These first units will be used to train future users. The weapon system will be deployed in operations in the course of 2018 and the delivery of 400 firing posts and 1,950 missiles across all of the French Armed Forces by 2025 is already planned.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.defense.gouv.fr/salle-de-presse/communiques-de-presse/communiques-de-florence-parly/projet-de-loi-de-programmation-militaire-2019-2025-une-lpm-de-renouveau|title=Projet de loi de programmation militaire 2019-2025 une LPM de renouveau|website=www.defense.gouv.fr|access-date=2018-02-14|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180215024952/https://www.defense.gouv.fr/salle-de-presse/communiques-de-presse/communiques-de-florence-parly/projet-de-loi-de-programmation-militaire-2019-2025-une-lpm-de-renouveau|archive-date=15 February 2018|url-status=live}}</ref>
 
=== Current operators ===
* {{EGY}}: Used by [[Egyptian Navy]] special forces.<ref>[https://www.armyrecognition.com/defense_news_march_2023_global_security_army_industry/france_has_supplied_mbda_akeron_mp_anti-tank_missiles_to_egyptian_special_forces.html France has supplied MBDA Akeron MP anti-tank missiles to Egyptian Special Forces]. ''Army Recognition''. 23 March 2023.</ref>
* {{FRA}}: 400 launchers and 1,950 missiles to enter service from 2017.<ref>[https://armyrecognition.com/november_2017_global_defense_security_news_industry/french_army_takes_delivery_of_first_mmp_medium_range_missile.html French army takes delivery of first MMP Medium Range Missile]</ref><ref name="DGA 20222">{{cite web|access-date=2023-01-15|author=Direction Générale de l'Armement|title=La DGA notifie à MBDA la commande de 200 missiles anti-char de moyenne portée|url=https://www.defense.gouv.fr/dga/actualites/dga-notifie-a-mbda-commande-200-missiles-anti-char-moyenne-portee|website=www.defense.gouv.fr}}<!-- auto-translated from French by Module:CS1 translator -->.</ref>
* {{flag|Ukraine}}: donated to Ukraine following the [[2022 invasion of Ukraine by Russia]].<ref>{{cite web|date=18 February 2023|title=Guerre en Ukraine: pour la première fois, la France reconnaît avoir livré des missiles anti-chars Akeron aux troupes de Zelensky|url=https://www.lindependant.fr/2023/02/18/guerre-en-ukraine-pour-la-premiere-fois-la-france-reconnait-avoir-livre-des-missiles-anti-chars-akeron-aux-troupes-de-zelensky-11008021.php|website=L'indépendant}}<!-- auto-translated from French by Module:CS1 translator -->.</ref>
 
=== Future operators ===
* {{BEL}}: 761 missiles ordered in 2022 to equip the [[EBRC Jaguar|Jaguar EBRC]] armoured fighting vehicle, with deliveries to start in 2025.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.forcesoperations.com/une-premiere-commande-de-missiles-akeron-mp-pour-la-defense-belge/|title=Une première commande de missiles Akeron MP pour la Défense belge|first=Nathan|last=Gain|date=23 August 2023}}</ref>
* {{LUX}}: 90 missiles ordered in 2022, with deliveries to start before 2025.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Gain |first1=Nathan |title=Le missile MMP au cœur de la future capacité antichar luxembourgeoise |url=https://www.forcesoperations.com/le-missile-mmp-au-coeur-de-la-future-capacite-antichar-luxembourgeoise/ |website=Forces Opérations Blog |date=14 January 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=La DGA notifie à MBDA la commande de 200 missiles anti-char de moyenne portée |url=https://www.defense.gouv.fr/dga/actualites/dga-notifie-a-mbda-commande-200-missiles-anti-char-moyenne-portee |website=defense.gouv.fr |date=12 January 2023}}</ref>
* {{SWE}}: A few units of Akeron MP missile systems were ordered for testing and evaluation. A variant of the missile, the ''RBS-58'', is being developed for the [[Swedish Armed Forces]]. It will be license built by Saab Dynamic AB.<ref>{{cite web|access-date=2023-11-16|date=2023-04-18|language=en-CA|title=Sweden Selects Akeron MP ATGM|url=https://www.overtdefense.com/2023/04/18/sweden-selects-akeron-mp-anti-tank-guided-missile/|website=Overt Defense}}<!-- auto-translated from French by Module:CS1 translator --></ref>
 
=== Potential operators ===
* {{PRT}}: The system is one of those considered by the [[Portuguese Army]] to replace the current MILAN systems.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-08-22 |title=MMP ATGM Portuguese Army |url=https://twitter.com/Defence360/status/1561432894547140608 |access-date=2022-08-22 |website= |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220822090741/https://twitter.com/Defence360/status/1561432894547140608 |archive-date=22 August 2022 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Despacho n.º 11576/2022, de 30 de setembro |url=https://dre.pt/dre/detalhe/despacho/11576-2022-201678996 |access-date=2022-09-30 |website=dre.pt}}</ref>
* {{QAT}}: In December 2017, [[Qatar]] reportedly opened negotiations with MBDA in order to acquire MMPs for up to €400 million to replace around 650 missiles - mostly [[HOT (missile)|HOT]] and old version of the [[MILAN]].<ref>{{Cite news |title=Après le Rafale, le Qatar intéressé par le missile MMP |url=https://www.challenges.fr/entreprise/defense/apres-le-rafale-le-qatar-interesse-par-le-missile-mmp_519472 |access-date=2018-02-14 |work=Challenges |language=fr}}</ref>


==Etymology==
The Akeron is one of the rivers of the underworld in [[Istroya]]n mythology.
==See also==
==See also==
*[[Modern Equipment and Uniform of the Army of Burgundie]]
*[[Modern equipment and uniform of the Army of Burgundie]]


==External links==
==External links==

Latest revision as of 19:16, 3 February 2024

Feu Akeron
Hell Fire
Man portable version of the Feu Akeron
TypeAnti-tank guided missile
Place of origin Burgundie
Service history
In service2018 – present
Used bySee operators
Production history
Designed2010 – 2014
Produced2016 – present
No. built800 launchers and 8,000 missiles in service in the Burgoignesc Security Forces
Specifications
Mass15 kg (33 lb): round in launch tube
11 kg (24 lb): tripod, firing post and battery
Length1.3 m (4.3 ft)
Diameter140 mm (5.5 in)
WarheadTandem HEAT
Blast yieldCan penetrate 1,000mm of RHA
Can penetrate 2,000mm of concrete

Enginesolid-fuel rocket, two phase thrust (soft launch)
Operational
range
150km
Guidance
system
infrared homing, television guidance
Launch
platform
  • Man-portable launcher
  • Vehicle-launched
  • Sea-launched

The Feu Akeron, is a family of Burgoignesc fifth generation, network-enabled, anti-tank guided missile systems. Featuring both fire-and-forget and command guidance operating modes, it also integrates third party target designation for indirect firing scenarios through its lock-on after launch capability for non-line-of-sight (NLOS) use.

Entering operational service in the Army of Burgundie in 2018, the Feu Akeron MP (medium range) is a replacement for the MILAN and FGM-148 Javelin. It is designed for dismounted infantry (being man-portable) as well as for integration on combat vehicles and has a firing range of up to 5km.

A long-range, air-launched missile of the same family, the Feu Akeron LP (Feu Akeron Longue Portée), is in use on the Eurocopter Panther AS565 CA.

Etymology

The Akeron is one of the rivers of the underworld in Istroyan mythology.

See also

External links