Description:
The AGM-114 Hellfire missile was designed to defeat armored vehicles at standoff ranges. The primary US Army platforms carrying this missile are the AH-64 Apache and AH-1 Cobra attack helicopters. However, the Hellfire missile can be launched from other helicopters and airborne platforms. In the latest models, the missile system has expanded its spectrum of targets to take out fortifications and hostile forces protected in urban terrain.
The guidance system of the Hellfire has evolved from the semi-active laser in early models to the last generation millimeter wave guidance. The AGM-114 is a precision guided, subsonic missile with a maximum range of up to 8,000 meters. The Hellfire missile saw combat for the first time during the Gulf War in 1991 (Operation Desert Storm) achieving a great victory over Iraqi armored forces. Since then, the weapon has been deployed in many conflicts by US and allied forces across the world.
The AGM-114A Hellfire is the baseline model and features a single warhead and a semi-active laser guidance system. The Hellfire missile tracks the laser energy reflected on the target. The target must be illuminated by the attack helicopter (Apache or Cobra).
Specifications Dimensions: Diameter 180 mm, Length 1,630 mm
Weights: Max Weight 45 kg (99 lb)
Performance: Max Range 8,000 m (26,247 ft), Min Range 500 m (1,640 ft)
United States of America