Hidden Dangers: Wire Guided Missiles and Their Remnants in Modern Warfare

Wire guided missiles are a critical component in modern military technology, but they come with their own set of risks and challenges. This article will explore the potential problems caused by these missiles, particularly in training and operations, and how these risks are managed.

The Challenges of Wire Guided Missiles

Challenges in Training and Operations: In training environments, the disposal and management of wiring from wire guided missiles are rigorously policed. Despite this, certain risks still persist, especially in field operations. For instance, while the Dragon missile has been replaced by the optically guided Javelin, the risks associated with wire guided systems remain relevant.

Historical Precedents in WWII

Looking back to World War II, the German Air Force utilized wire-guided missiles for air-to-air operations. These wire-guided missiles posed significant risks, especially in urban environments where overhead power lines could be short-circuited by the falling wires. Such incidents could result in cascading blackouts and potential damage to infrastructure.

Operational Risks: Helicopter Launches

The greatest operational risk with wire-guided missiles comes from their use in helicopters, where safety is paramount. For example, the Belgian TOW missile system, when deployed from the A109 Agusta helicopter, demands that the helicopter hover during launch to avoid collision with the missile's wire. Post-launch, the launcher pods are designed with wire cutters to sever the wire immediately. However, there have been instances where this procedure failed, leading to serious consequences such as the A109 helicopter coming to a standstill in the middle of an active training exercise, thus halting operations for the day.

Examples of Incidents

During a combined live-fire exercise, I witnessed several instances where the post-launch wire cutting mechanism did not function, causing the helicopter to land in the midst of a battalion of advancing armored vehicles. This not only ceased the exercise but also highlighted the critical nature of maintaining these safety protocols.

Physical Risks to Equipment and Personnel

The wire itself is extremely fine and strong, yet it is not typically recoverable after launch. It can drape over various surfaces, posing distinct risks. For example, in the mid-1980s, a Kiowa helicopter landed to refuel. Upon stopping, it was discovered that the TOW missile wire had wrapped around the mast and pitch control tubes, bending them slightly. Without hydraulic power, the flight controls became immovable, and a failure of the hydraulic system could have resulted in loss of control. Additionally, the wire could wrap around vehicle driveshafts or axles, potentially cutting seals and causing oil leaks.

Remnants and Their Impact

While the wires do remain after a missile is fired, they are hair-thin and relatively fragile, making them unlikely to impede foot infantry unless found in significant quantities. They are more of an annoyance like walking into a large spider web. However, the primary threat comes from their visibility they pose in sunny conditions, acting as a stark, shiny trail back to the launcher position. This is why crews often practice "shoot and scoot" tactics to minimize this risk.

Understanding and mitigating the risks associated with wire guided missile systems is crucial for maintaining safety and effectiveness in modern warfare. Proper training, advanced technology, and strategic tactics play a significant role in managing these challenges. By addressing these issues, military forces can ensure safer and more effective operations in the field.