U.S. Orders new LWCLU Control Panels for Javelin

The United States has ordered the production of new lightweight LWCLU launchers for the Javelin anti-tank system. The Javelin Joint Venture received two production contracts totaling £267 million. Under the contracts, the command and control systems will also be sent to the military of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania.

"We will produce the Javelin LWCLU for the U.S. Army, U.S. Marine Corps and allies," the company stated.

Work under these contracts will take place in Tucson, and their completion is expected in 2026 and 2028.

LWCLU Lightweight Command and Control Launcher for Javelin Anti-Tank Systems from Javelin Joint Venture

The LWCL control panel is the only component of the Javelin system and is resusable. The full-scale production of the LWCLU has resulted in cost-effectiveness and helped accelerate delivery times. The Javelin LWCLU is 30% smaller and 25% lighter than its predecessor, the Block I Command Launch Unit, while doubling target detection and recognition.

The basic module consists of: the body, shock absorbers, handles, battery compartment, optical sight, thermal sight, eyepiece, training equipment connection slot and missile connection slot. Other relevant logistical and program support elements may be present.

Illustration to the news story about the Estonian Self-Defense Forces training with Javelin in 2016

To date, the Javelin Joint Venture has produced more than 50,000 Javelin missiles and more than 12,000 reusable command and control launchers.

As a reminder, in 2022, the United Kingdom ordered 513 new LWCLUs for Javelin.