Malaysia to Receive First Batch of Karaok Anti-Tank Missile Systems from Turkish Company Roketsan in 2026.

On May 8, 2024, Roketsan, the Turkish defense systems manufacturer, announced it would deliver the first batch of its Karaok portable anti-tank missile system to the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) by early 2026. This announcement was made at the Defence Services Asia (DSA) 2024 by Chumur Murat Boz, Roketsan's Regional Manager for Central Asia and the Far East.

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Roketsan Karaok Short-Range Anti-Tank System (Picture source: Roketsan)

Speaking on the sidelines of the Defence Services Asia (DSA) and National Security (NatSec) Asia 2024 exhibition, Boz emphasized the strategic partnership between Malaysia and Roketsan, rather than a mere customer-supplier relationship. "Malaysia will be our first delivery for Karaok," Boz stated, highlighting the global demand for portable anti-tank and air defense systems.

The Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) are set to replace their current Russian-made Metis-M system, which has been in service for two decades, with high-tech Karaok system. The Karaok is noted for its advanced "fire and forget" capability and can engage main battle tanks and armored vehicles up to 2.5 kilometers away using both direct and top-attack modes.

This capability puts the Karaok on par with other sophisticated systems such as the American-made FGM-148 Javelin. The decision to choose the Karaok system followed a formal selection process by the Malaysian Defence Ministry last year, aimed at enhancing the country's anti-tank capabilities.

In preparation for the integration of this new technology, Roketsan will provide comprehensive training to ATM personnel, including simulators and real-life exercises. "We would like to give this training to the users just before delivery... we will also provide training for trainers so that they can train future trainers," Boz added.

While the specific quantity of Karaok systems procured and the contract value remain undisclosed, earlier reports suggested that the deal includes 18 launchers and over 100 guided missiles, marking a significant upgrade to Malaysia’s defense arsenal.

From a strictly technical perspective, the KARAOK is a man-portable, short-range, fire-and-forget anti-tank guided missile system that stands out for its effectiveness in both day and night conditions, thanks to its imaging infrared seeker. The system features a missile diameter of 125 mm and a total weight of less than 16 kg, including the missile and launching tube. As said above, it boasts a range of 2.5 kilometers and is equipped with an armor-piercing tandem warhead. The KARAOK offers versatile engagement capabilities with both direct attack and top attack modes. Its operation is simplified by a fire-and-forget mode, enhancing its usability and effectiveness in rapid combat scenarios.

Roketsan Karaok Short-Range Anti-Tank System (Picture source: Roketsan)