Vikhr

Vikhr (Russian: вихрь, "whirlwind") is the designation used by the Russian armed forces for a family of air-launched laser-guided anti-tank missiles (ATGMs). The principal version is the 9K123 Vikhr (NATO reporting name AT-16 Vikhr), developed for engagement of armored targets from attack aviation.

Guidance and warhead: Vikhr missiles use semi-active laser guidance, with the target illuminated by an airborne or ground laser designator during flight. The warhead is designed to defeat modern armor, including reactive armor, at the missile’s effective engagement range. Propulsion is provided by a solid-fuel rocket motor, enabling rapid strike against moving or stationary targets.

Platforms and deployment: The Vikhr family is designed for compatibility with various Russian aircraft, notably attack helicopters such as the Ka-50, Ka-52, and Mi-28. It entered service in the late 1990s and has been demonstrated in exercises and, according to reports, in combat operations. Its design emphasizes a compact launch profile and precision engagement with relatively low collateral risk compared to unguided munitions.

Variants and export: In addition to the baseline 9K123/Vikhr, later configurations and export variants have been developed to suit different launch platforms and designation systems. The Vikhr family represents a modernization of Russia’s laser-guided anti-armor capabilities, offering a precision option for helicopter and aircraft crews in anti-armor and close-ground-support roles.