Missile Swingfire

Development began in the 1960s following the cancellation of the Orange William program. The system addressed limitations in early anti-tank missiles, specifically the requirement for launchers to be positioned in the line of sight. It entered operational service in 1969.

The missile utilizes wire guidance and a solid rocket motor. Steering is achieved through Thrust Vector Control, which allows the projectile to execute turns of up to ninety degrees immediately after launch. This allows the firing vehicle to remain concealed while the operator uses a portable sight from a separate position. The system employs a High-Explosive Anti-Tank (HEAT) warhead triggered by an impact mechanism. Initial versions used Manual Command to Line of Sight (MCLOS) guidance. This was later upgraded to Semi-Automatic Command to Line of Sight (SACLOS) under the Swingfire With Improved Guidance (SWIG) program. SWIG incorporated an infrared tracker to monitor the rocket exhaust and automatically transmit course corrections to the missile. Thermal imaging and infrared spotting scopes were later integrated to improve engagement in low-visibility conditions.

The system was widely deployed by the British Army on several platforms, including the FV438, the FV102 Striker, and the Ferret Mk 5 armoured car. Specialized variants included the Beeswing for palletized vehicle mounting and the Golfswing for small trolleys. A helicopter-mounted version, Hawkswing, was tested but not adopted for service. The missile was exported to several countries, including Egypt, where it was produced under license, as well as Kenya, Nigeria, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Sudan. Former operators include Belgium, Iran, and Portugal. The missile was used in combat during the Gulf War. In British service, the system remained on the FV102 Striker until 2005, when it was retired in favor of man-portable systems. During decommissioning in March 2002, 20 warheads were lost in the Bristol Channel and were never recovered.