Trigat LR

From the INTERNET DJ takes out details about a third generation anti-tank missile

TRIGAT is a third generation anti-tank missile, which is being developed in two variations, TRIGAT-MR for medium range applications and TRIGAT-LR for long range applications. The missile is also known as PARS-3, Panzerabwehr Rakensystem 3 (Armour defence rocket system 3 in the German language), and AC 3G, AntiChar de 3e Generation (Anti-tank of the Third Generation in French).

TRIGAT is a European programme involving France, Germany and the United Kingdom. A feasibility study was carried out in 1980 and 1981, followed by a project definition exercise from 1983 to 1986. A Memorandum of Understanding was agreed by the governments of the three countries, France, Germany and the United Kingdom in 1988 to cover the development of TRIGAT MR and Germany and the United Kingdom are responsible for the development of the long range TRIGAT LR. Belgium and the Netherlands joined as associate members of the group in 1989.

The missiles are being developed by the Euromissile Dynamics Group, a consortium of which the members are Aerospatiale of France, Matra Bae Dynamics of UK and Daimler-Chrysler Aerospace of Germany. TRIGAT-LR is expected to enter service in 2004.

LONG RANGE TRIGAT LR

The requirement for the long range TRIGAT LR missile was identified as a replacement for Euromissile's HOT (High subsonic, Optically guided, Tube launched anti-tank missile first produced in 1978), the BGM-71 TOW from Raytheon (Tube launched, Optically tracked, Wire guided anti-tank missile first produced in 1968) and the Swingfire from Matra Bae Dynamics (wire guided anti-tank missile first produced in 1967).

TRIGAT LR is an autonomous fire and forget missile unlike the medium range version in which the laser beam has to be directed onto the target until impact. The long range TRIGAT is ground vehicle or helicopter launched. The system uses passive infra-red CCD sensors in the mast mounted sight and in the missile.

The Osiris mast mounted sight for a helicopter is produced by SFIM Industries and was designed for both HOT and TRIGAT missiles. The Osiris electro-optical acquisition system provides passive detection, recognition and identification of the target. The mast mounted sight is equipped with an IR CCD thermal imager and a CCD television camera on a gyrostabilised platform. Positive target identification (man-in-the-loop) is used. The gunner selects the target on a display screen and the target is locked-on before launch using highly automated fire control. The system's infra-red electro-optics sight provides day and night capability and all weather operation.

Both long range and medium range TRIGAT use thrust vector control for high agility in flight and precision targeting. The operating range is given as 500 metres to 5000 metres, but the range is extendable to 8000 metres. Salvo firing provides a firing rate of up to four missiles in eight seconds.

TRIGAT LR can be applied in direct attack or terminal dive modes. The system is equipped with a tandem shaped charge warhead for high lethality against modern reactive armour. The charge is ignited by an impact fuse.

The dimensions of the TRIGAT LR missile are approximately length 1500 cm x body diameter 15 cm.

Feasibility studies and project definition were carried out in 1978 to 1980 and in 1980 to 1986. Development started in 1988. The system is scheduled to enter the manufacturing phase in 1997 with trials planned from 1998.