MILAN prototype, 1966
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Below, we have a number of images of a MILAN prototype, part of a Dutch evaluation dated 1966.Searching for a next-generation battalion-level weapon to replace the 106-mm recoilless rifle, a number of systems were discussed: TOW, Bantam, Swingfire, and the SS11B1, with the HOT and MILAN considered later on.
The TOW system was selected some seven years later, with the MILAN finding itself rejected a second time in 1977 in favour of the M47 Dragon as a platoon system.
The weapon also makes an appearance in a Belgian publication from 1967, giving us the following characteristics:
| Weapon weight | ± 8 kg |
| Mount weight | 7 kg |
| Weapon length | 790 mm |
| Range | 75 to 2000 m |
Although the report is interesting in full, the reader is left with a short conclusion on the MILAN for now:
With regards to the MILAN-system's positive characteristics, we may expect:
- Low minimum range (75 m)
- Small dimensions and low weight, allowing quick deployment and good concealment
- Ease of selecting and training gunners
- Ease of operation
Negative characteristics are, however:
- Insufficient effect against heavy tank targets, as defined in STANAG 4089
- Not intended to be mounted in/on armoured vehicles, lacking the capability to be operated under armour
- No remote operation
There is furthermore little certainty as to the advantages and disadvantages of the MILAN-system's semi-automatic guidance as compared with manual guidance, especially with regards to hit probability and reliability.
Footnotes