What does ATGM mean in MILITARY

An ATGM is an aircraft-terminating guided missile, which is a type of guided missile developed for use against aircraft. It consists of a guidance system that homes in on its intended target and strikes it with explosive force.

ATGMs usually employ either infrared homing (heat-seeking) or radar homing technology for guidance purposes. The specific guidance systems used can vary according to the type of mission or application.

The first uses of air-launched anti-aircraft missiles began in the 1930s, but modern ATGMs have only been around since the 1970s. They are now widely used by various countries for defence against enemy forces in air combat scenarios.

ATGMs can be launched from either internal launchers inside the attacking plane or external pylons attached underneath it's wing(s). Depending on the model, they are usually ejected by either rocket motor or rocket assisted deployment methods to launch off into the sky before selecting and targeting their target with precision accuracy.

Generally speaking, most variants of ATGMs are designed as anti-aircraft weapons capable of engaging both manned and unmanned aerial targets such as enemy fighter jets, military helicopters, drones and cruise missiles etc..