The 9M133 Kornet: A Russian Anti-Tank Missile That Reshaped Modern Armored Warfare

Wars & Conflicts · Published 15 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Introduced in 1998, the Russian 9M133 Kornet is a heavy, laser-guided anti-tank missile that has become a staple in conflicts worldwide. Capable of penetrating over 100 centimeters of armor, this versatile weapon system has been integrated into everything from infantry tripods to remote-controlled turrets, challenging the dominance of modern main battle tanks.

Developed by the KBP Instrument Design Bureau and unveiled in 1994, the Kornet was designed as a modular, universal system. It utilizes a reliable laser beam guidance mechanism, which allows operators to engage targets from various platforms. Unlike earlier wire-guided systems like the Fagot or Konkurs, the Kornet offers superior range and armor penetration. Its 10-pound warhead is specifically engineered to defeat explosive reactive armor, often by targeting the thinner upper semi-sphere of a vehicle.

The system's evolution has been significant. The 9M133 Kornet-EM, introduced in 2012, features an automatic target tracker, allowing for more precise engagements and the ability to target low-flying aerial threats like helicopters or UAVs. Furthermore, the 9M134 Bulat variant, a lightweight version weighing only 6.5 kg, was designed for mobility and engaging medium-armored targets. These advancements have made the Kornet a highly sought-after export, with production licensed in countries such as Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan.

Combat history has proven the Kornet's impact. It has been used extensively in the Iraq War, the 2006 Lebanon War, and the Syrian Civil War, among others. Its effectiveness against advanced armor, including the M1A1 Abrams, Merkava, and Challenger 2 tanks, has forced military planners to adapt. In response, systems like the Israeli Trophy active protection system were developed to intercept incoming missiles, leading to tactical innovations like the 'Tharallah' twin-launcher system, designed to overwhelm defenses by firing two missiles in rapid succession.

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