M-220 TOW: Tube-launched, Optically tracked, Wire-guided missile, 6 Photos

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The M-220 Tube-launched, Optically tracked, Wire-guided (TOW) missile system is the most widely deployed anti-tank missile in the world with about one-half million manufactured. It is designed to defeat armored vehicles and other targets such as field fortifications from ranges up to 3,750 meters.

The TOW system was released for service with the U.S. Army in 1970. The photos in this montage are from various field trials and prototype exhibitions in the 1960s, plus one of the M-825 upgrade of the M-151A2 jeep as a TOW platform in 1984. The six hi-resolution photos are combined on one sheet, each with a caption telling what is known about the photo.

The TOW is shown with two types of jeep, the M-274 Mule, the M-113 APC and a tripod mount. (Since the TOW is heavy -- approx. 200 pounds depending on model -- the tripod is rarely used.)

Today in WW II: 26 May 1940 Evacuation of Dunkirk begins, withdrawing British forces from continental Europe [Operation Dynamo, 26 May-3 June]. More ↓

26 May 1942 German Afrika Korps counteroffensive in North Africa drives the British back to the Gazala line, just in front of Tobruk [26-27 May].
26 May 1942 At remote oasis in the Libyan desert, Free French and British troops slow the German advance [Battle of Bir Hakeim].
Visit the Olive-Drab.com World War II Timeline for day-by-day events 1939-1945! See also WW2 Books.