rpg - 7

The RPG-7 (Ручной Противотанковый Гранатомёт, Ruchnoy Protivotankovyy Granatomyot) is a widely recognized Soviet-designed recoilless, reusable, anti-tank rocket-propelled grenade launcher. Introduced in 1961, it remains one of the most iconic and widely used infantry anti-armor weapons globally due to its simplicity, reliability, and effectiveness. Key Features: Type: Recoilless, rocket-propelled grenade launcher. Caliber: 40mm launcher tube (warheads vary, typically 85mm105mm). Effective Range: 200300 meters (up to 500m with some warheads). Warhead Types: - PG-7V (HEAT): Standard anti-tank round (penetrates 260mm RHA). - PG-7VL (HEAT): Improved penetration (500mm RHA). - OG-7V (Fragmentation): Anti-personnel round. - TBG-7V (Thermobaric): For bunkers/structures. Weight: 6.3 kg (unloaded), 1011 kg (loaded). Backblast: Significant rear danger zone (30m+). Operation: The RPG-7 fires a rocket with a sustainer motor that ignites after launch (initial charge propels it 1020m). The warhead arms after traveling a safe distance. HEAT warheads use shaped charges to penetrate armor. Combat Use: Versatile: Effective against tanks, light vehicles, bunkers, and infantry. Ubiquitous: Used by militaries, insurgents, and non-state actors worldwide. Countermeasures: Modern tanks use ERA (Explosive Reactive Armor) or APS (Active Protection Systems) to defeat RPGs. Legacy: Over 9 million RPG-7s produced. Symbol of asymmetric warfare (e.g., Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria). Still in service with upgrades (e.g., RPG-7V2 with improved optics/warheads). Would you like details on tactics, historical use, or comparisons to other anti-tank weapons?