The US is developing the Hellhound S3 anti-tank missile: a super-compact weapon with a range of 60km.
The Hellhound S3 is a heavy 11-17kg patrol round that can be easily carried in a backpack, reaches a speed of 618km/h, and allows for flexible warhead changes right on the battlefield.
The Hellhound S3 is a new generation of guided missile developed by Cummings Aerospace, marking a step forward in miniaturizing precision-guided weapons. This weapon blurs the lines between unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and anti-tank missiles, providing superior mobility for infantry forces.
Technical specifications and performance capabilities
Physically, the Hellhound S3 has a design similar to a miniature cruise missile, measuring approximately 1 meter in length. The system's weight ranges from 11 to 17 kg depending on the type of warhead, allowing soldiers to easily carry it in a standard backpack.
The system utilizes a turbojet engine, supporting vertical launch from a ground-based launcher. This engine allows the missile to reach a maximum speed of 618 km/h and a combat range of up to 60 km from the launch point. These are impressive specifications for a squad-level personal weapon system.
Modular design and 3D printing technology
The Hellhound S3's breakthrough lies in its 3D printing manufacturing process and modular design. This design allows soldiers to change warheads on the battlefield in just two minutes without the need for specialized tools. This customization capability enables the weapon to quickly adapt to a wide variety of targets.
| Type of warhead | Operational objectives |
|---|---|
| Armor-piercing warhead | Tanks, heavy armored vehicles |
| High-explosive fragmentation warhead | Infantry, fortified positions |
| Special warhead | Suppressing enemy electronic warfare |
Technology readiness
Recent tests at the Pendleton test range in Oregon have confirmed the weapon's design characteristics and operational capabilities. The U.S. Missile Defense Agency has now classified the Hellhound S3 at Technology Readiness Level 7 (TRL-7). This means the system has passed real-world environmental testing and is nearly ready for mass production.
