Malaysia acquires KaraOK antitank missiles from Roketsan.

The Malaysian Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) has finalized a deal with Turkish defense company Roketsan for the acquisition of KaraOK-guided anti-tank missile systems to bolster the capabilities of the Malaysian Army. Rahayu Bahaudin, the CEO of Ketech Asia in Malaysia, who is serving as a system integrator for this project, confirmed this news.
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KaraOK short-range anti-tank missile (Picture source: Roketsan)

The agreement ensures the delivery of 18 medium-range guided anti-tank missile systems (ATGM) for the Malaysian Army. Analysts speculate that these new systems will replace the aging Metis-M systems, which have been in service in the Malaysian Army for two decades. The initial purchase of Metis-M missile launchers and approximately 100 missiles took place in 2001.

Earlier this year, MINDEF had issued tenders to acquire 18 medium-range ATGM systems, equipped with at least one preloaded missile. The specifications included one indoor simulator, three field simulators, three disassembled missiles for training, and associated test equipment.

According to official documentation, the newly acquired KaraOK systems will be integrated into the anti-tank units of the infantry battalions. Developed by Turkish defense company Roketsan, the KaraOK is designed to be both portable and effective, aiming to provide ground forces with a versatile solution to neutralize enemy armored vehicles. Notably, the system has the ability to lock onto its target before launching, allowing for greater accuracy. Additionally, it features "fire-and-forget" technology, meaning that once the missile is launched, the operator can immediately focus on other tasks without having to guide the missile to its target.

The KaraOK is equipped with a tandem high-explosive anti-tank warhead designed to penetrate explosive reactive armor, a technology often used to reinforce modern armored vehicles. In terms of range, it can engage targets at distances between 2,000 and 4,000 meters, making it suitable for a variety of combat scenarios.

The system comprises two main elements: a reusable command launch unit (CLU) and a complete round of ammunition. The CLU incorporates advanced features such as an eyepiece, vertical control grips, and day and night sensors, enabling the operator to better identify and track targets in various environmental conditions. Similar to the U.S. Javelin anti-tank system, the CLU is designed to be reusable, making it a long-term economically viable option.

As for its development, the KaraOK is the result of sustained efforts to modernize Turkey's anti-tank capabilities and meet the needs of its allies. Roketsan, the company behind this system, is a leading defense enterprise in Turkey and plays a significant role in the country's military technology evolution. The KaraOK fits into this innovation drive and has been designed to adapt to the changing requirements of modern battlefields.