Bulgaria to Order Javelin Missiles for $114M

The U.S. Department of Defense has approved the sale of FGM-148F Javelin anti-tank missiles and associated equipment to Bulgaria in a deal valued at $114 million.

Bulgaria requested the purchase of up to 218 FGM-148F Javelin missiles and 107 lightweight command launch units (LWCLUs), the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) said in an official release. This agreement will be provided through a joint venture between Lockheed Martin and RTX.

The deal includes a range of additional equipment and services, such as Javelin LWCLU Basic Skills Trainers (BST), Javelin Outdoor Trainers (JOT), Battery Coolant Units (BCUs), System Integration and Checkout (SICO), and comprehensive lifecycle support. With this acquisition, Bulgaria becomes the latest country to operate the advanced Javelin system, marking its first purchase of these anti-tank missiles.

The implementation of the Javelin system will involve extensive training for the Bulgarian military, starting with technical instruction on the system’s operation. Soldiers will be trained on the use of the Command Launch Unit (CLU) and the infrared targeting systems, focusing on acquiring targets and employing the missile’s fire-and-forget capability. Practical exercises will follow, using simulated combat scenarios to practice targeting armored vehicles at distances up to 2,500 meters and utilizing the system’s top-attack feature. Additionally, soldiers will be trained in tactical maneuvers to take cover after firing the missile.

In the final phase, training will cover the maintenance and logistics of the Javelin system, including storage, transportation, and minor repairs handled by specialized technical teams.

The Javelin system offers several advantages over older Soviet-designed anti-tank weapons like the RPG-7 and 9K111 Fagot. Its fire-and-forget capability allows operators to take cover immediately after launch, reducing their vulnerability in combat. The missile’s dual cumulative warhead can penetrate advanced composite and reactive armor, outperforming the RPG-7 and Fagot, which are less effective against modern tanks. With a range of up to 2,500 meters, the Javelin also has greater reach compared to the RPG-7's range of 500 meters, enhancing its tactical versatility. Additionally, the Javelin's infrared sensor allows it to target in low-visibility conditions, an advantage over many older Soviet systems.