The MBT LAW (Main Battle Tank Light Anti-Armor Weapon), also known as the NLAW (Next-generation Light Anti-tank Weapon), is a man-portable system developed for infantry use against heavily armored vehicles, including main battle tanks. Manufactured through a collaboration between Saab Bofors Dynamics of Sweden and Thales in the UK, this single-use weapon combines advanced targeting and ease of operation. Its versatility in both confined and open battlefields makes it a critical asset for light infantry and special operations forces.
The weapon utilizes Overfly Top Attack (OTA) and Direct Attack (DA) modes, allowing users to adapt to the target type and combat scenario. The OTA mode is particularly effective against tanks’ less protected roof armor, while the DA mode is suitable for non-armored and lightly armored vehicles. The MBT LAW’s guidance system is pre-programmed to use Predicted Line-of-Sight (PLOS) tracking, enabling effective engagement of moving targets.
Design and Features
The MBT LAW’s ergonomic design facilitates ease of transport and operation by a single soldier. It features an intuitive sighting system and a preloaded launch tube that ensures safe disposal after use. Its advanced warhead can defeat modern tank armor, including reactive armor, by targeting weak points.
Key features include:
- Weight: Approximately 12.5 kg, making it highly portable.
- Length: Around 1 meter for compact carrying and maneuverability.
- Operational Range: Effective at distances from 20 meters to 600 meters, with a maximum range of 800 meters.
MBT LAW Performance and Capabilities
The MBT LAW delivers high-precision strikes with minimal collateral damage, essential for urban combat. Its warhead employs a shaped charge designed to penetrate over 500mm of rolled homogeneous armor (RHA). The system’s Predicted Line-of-Sight guidance enables the operator to aim at the target for a few seconds before firing, allowing the missile to compute and follow the correct trajectory automatically.
The weapon’s operational versatility extends to extreme conditions, from arctic cold to desert heat. It can be fired safely from enclosed spaces, making it suitable for urban warfare.
