Malaysian Army to Procure 100 KARAOK Anti-Tank Guided Missiles

The Malaysian Army has emerged as the first export customer for the KARAOK anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) system. The Malaysian Ministry of Defense announced today that it had selected Roketsan KARAOK as the winner of a closely watched tender for 18 Medium-Range Anti-Tank Guided Weapons (ATGW-MR) systems. This strategic acquisition will equip the Malaysian Army with more than 100 KARAOK Missiles along with 18 systems, marking a momentous leap in the nation’s military preparedness. The journey to this landmark decision began earlier this year when the Malaysian Ministry of Defense initiated the tender process for the acquisition of 18 ATGW-MR systems. The bidding period, initially set to close on May 18, was extended until June 1 to accommodate potential bidders. After a meticulous evaluation process, Roketsan KARAOK emerged victorious.

The contract awarded to Roketsan includes the delivery of 18 ATGW-MR systems, each equipped with six missiles, totaling 108 advanced KARAOK Missiles. Additionally, the package will encompass an indoor simulator, three outdoor simulators, their corresponding components, and three transparent missiles for testing equipment. These systems are set to be integrated onto the Cendana Auto Rover light utility vehicle, a locally manufactured vehicle by Cendana Auto. The KARAOK Anti-Tank Guided Missile system represents a formidable addition to the Malaysian Army’s arsenal, effectively replacing the existing Metis-M ATGW-MR missiles installed on G-Wagen 4X4 vehicles. This transition will see the new ATGW-MR integrated into Cendana vehicles, known as Armed Tactical Ground Vehicles (ARTAC), which are equipped with both machine guns and anti-tank guided missiles. In total, 49 units have been ordered by the Malaysian Army, highlighting the nation’s commitment to enhancing its defense capabilities.

KARAOK, aptly named the “Black Arrow,” is a 125 mm man-portable, lightweight, fire-and-forget, short-range anti-tank guided missile developed by Roketsan. This advanced system boasts a tandem warhead and a cutting-edge hybrid dual-stage rocket motor designed for enclosed space firing. The missile exhibits a range initially exceeding 2500 meters while maintaining a lightweight construction of less than 16 kg (tube and missile) and a compact length of 110 cm. Its versatile capabilities allow for both direct and top attacks, and it can operate effectively in both daytime and nighttime conditions, courtesy of its Imaging Infrared Seeker. The KARAOK Anti-Tank Guided Missile system achieved Initial Operational Capability (IOC) in 2020 and was slated for induction into the Turkish Army in 2022. With Malaysia’s procurement, this advanced technology is set to bolster the nation’s defense posture and marks a significant step in international cooperation in the field of defense and security.