The FGM-148 Javelin is an American-made, man-portable anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) system. Since entering service in 1996, it has become one of the most famous infantry weapons in the world, primarily known for its "fire-and-forget" capability and its lethal effectiveness against modern heavy armor. Here is a breakdown of why the Javelin is a "gold standard" in modern warfare: 1. Key Features & Capabilities Fire-and-Forget: Unlike older systems that require the soldier to guide the missile all the way to the target (using wires or lasers), the Javelin uses an infrared seeker. Once the gunner locks on and fires, they can immediately drop the launcher and run for cover while the missile guides itself. Top-Attack Mode: This is the Javelin's "party trick." Instead of flying straight at the thick front armor of a tank, the missile climbs high into the air and dives down onto the roof of the vehicle, where the armor