A batch of new anti-tank missile systems has entered service with the Russian military base deployed in Tajikistan, the press center of Russia’s Central Military District reported on August 24.
"A batch of modern anti-tank missile systems Kornet (Cornet) has entered service with the Russian military base deployed in Tajikistan. The new systems are in service with artillery units of the base,” the press center says.
The Kornet is a modern Russian man-portable anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) intended for use against main battle tanks. It was first introduced into service with the Russian army in 1998. Western reporting name of this weapon is AT-14 or Spriggan.
The Kornet is among the most capable Russian ATGMs. It is reportedly not intended to fully replace previous systems, due to its high cost. The Kornet comes in variants with thermobaric warheads for use against soft targets. It was further developed into the 9M133 Kornet-EM, which has increased range, and an improved warhead.
The Kornet has been widely exported and is produced under license in several countries. It was first used in combat in 2003 and has since been used in many conflicts.
The Russian military base deployed in Tajikistan is subordinate to the Central Military District. It is Russia's largest non-naval military facility outside the country.
It was officially opened in Tajikistan in 2004 under a previous agreement, which was signed in 1993, and hosts Russia’s largest military contingent deployed abroad. A total of some 7,000 Russian troops are now stationed at two military facilities collectively known as the 201st military base – in Dushanbe and Bokhtar (formerly Qurghon Teppa), some 100 kilometers from Dushanbe.
