In direct mode, what is the altitude of the FGM-148 Javelin?

In direct mode, what is the altitude of the FGM-148 Javelin?

• A. 330 ft in direct mode
• B. 120 ft in direct mode
• C. 470 ft in direct mode
• D. 190 ft in direct mode

Answer: (D)

Direct mode uses a straightforward, low-flying approach to the target, so the seeker can stay locked and the path stays within clear line of sight over terrain and obstacles. Flying at about 190 feet above the ground gives enough clearance to avoid small terrain features while keeping the target in the seeker’s field of view and the guidance stable. This shallow trajectory is why 190 feet is the correct altitude for direct mode. Higher altitudes would move you into other flight profiles (like top-attack), which are not how direct mode operates.

Direct mode uses a straightforward, low-flying approach to the target, so the seeker can stay locked and the path stays within clear line of sight over terrain and obstacles. Flying at about 190 feet above the ground gives enough clearance to avoid small terrain features while keeping the target in the seeker’s field of view and the guidance stable. This shallow trajectory is why 190 feet is the correct altitude for direct mode. Higher altitudes would move you into other flight profiles (like top-attack), which are not how direct mode operates.