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Akeron MBT 120: The Missile That Turns Tank Cannons Into Smart Weapons

Published on 09/09/2025 at 10:56
Updated on 09/09/2025 at 10:59
Akeron MBT 120: o míssil que transforma canhões de tanques em armas inteligentes
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Akeron MBT 120 Missile Will Be Unveiled in London and Can Be Used by NATO Tanks to Hit Hidden Targets Without Exposing the Crew

The largest missile manufacturer in Europe, MBDA, has unveiled a groundbreaking system. It is the world’s first missile fired from a standard tank gun. Named Akeron MBT 120, it will be officially presented at the DSEI defense exhibition in London.

According to the company, the weapon enhances armored vehicles’ range and provides a decisive advantage on the battlefield.

This is because it allows targets to be hit behind buildings, trees, or other obstacles without exposing the crew to enemy fire.

Compatibility and Innovative Design

The missile has been developed to have the same dimensions as the 120 mm projectiles used by NATO. Thus, tanks like Leopard 2 and Challenger 3 can carry and store it under armor as if it were conventional ammunition.

Additionally, MBDA opted for off-the-shelf components, which should facilitate mass production. The weapon is also accessible, as customers can integrate their own warheads, although the manufacturer offers its own options.

Technology and Timeline

The system uses image navigation with artificial intelligence, inertial guidance, and satellite. It can be launched in single or double packs, utilizing existing 20-foot containers.

MBDA officials reported that the project advanced in just seven months, moving from the initial design to the demonstration phase. Live testing is scheduled for later this year.

Therefore, mass production is expected to begin in 2026, supported by a European network of suppliers to ensure secure supply chains.

Other Weapons on Display

The company also presented a gliding version of the Spear missile. This variant replaces the turbojet engine with a kinetic penetrator, reducing costs.

The Spear Glide will have a range of 80 to 100 kilometers, depending on launch conditions. Designed for fourth-generation fighters, such as Gripen, Typhoon, and KF-21, the system is intended for use when enemy air defenses are already degraded, allowing for mass attacks.

Expanded Portfolio at the Exhibition

At the London show, MBDA will also showcase the land-based version of the ASRAAM missile. The weapon offers point defense against drones and cruise missiles.

Another highlight is the updated model of the long-range stealth missile from the UK-France joint program, the Future Cruise/Anti-Ship Weapon.

Both this version and the planned high-speed variant are expected to enter service in the early 2030s.

According to the company, the new portfolio aims to provide NATO allies with scalable and resilient options. The goal is to respond to lessons learned from the war in Ukraine and threats from similar adversaries.

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Welington
Welington
09/09/2025 16:52

O Brasil está quebrado não tem dinheiro pra comprar combustível imagina armas sofisticadas!

Fabio Lucas Carvalho

Jornalista especializado em uma ampla variedade de temas, como carros, tecnologia, política, indústria naval, geopolítica, energia renovável e economia. Atuo desde 2015 com publicações de destaque em grandes portais de notícias. Minha formação em Gestão em Tecnologia da Informação pela Faculdade de Petrolina (Facape) agrega uma perspectiva técnica única às minhas análises e reportagens. Com mais de 10 mil artigos publicados em veículos de renome, busco sempre trazer informações detalhadas e percepções relevantes para o leitor.

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