The TOW system is an anti-tank missile that is guided how?

The TOW system is an anti-tank missile that is guided how?

• A. It is guided by GPS only
• B. It is guided by a wired connection to the launcher and joystick control
• C. It is infrared guided
• D. It is laser guided

Answer: (C)

The guiding method shown here is a wired command guidance system. In this setup, the operator uses a joystick to steer the missile, and control signals are transmitted along a towable wire that unspools from the launcher as the missile flies. The missile’s onboard electronics interpret those signals and adjust its flight surfaces to keep it on the commanded path toward the target. This means it’s not guided by GPS, an onboard infrared seeker, or a laser designator—those other methods involve different sensors and targeting setups. The wire-guided approach was the classic way the TOW was controlled, offering direct, real-time maneuverability from the launcher to the missile.

The guiding method shown here is a wired command guidance system. In this setup, the operator uses a joystick to steer the missile, and control signals are transmitted along a towable wire that unspools from the launcher as the missile flies. The missile’s onboard electronics interpret those signals and adjust its flight surfaces to keep it on the commanded path toward the target. This means it’s not guided by GPS, an onboard infrared seeker, or a laser designator—those other methods involve different sensors and targeting setups. The wire-guided approach was the classic way the TOW was controlled, offering direct, real-time maneuverability from the launcher to the missile.