RPG (Rocket-propelled grenade)
From Halbeeg, the open encyclopedia · Af-Soomaali
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An RPG is a shoulder-fired weapon system that launches a small warhead equipped with a small solid-fuel motor, which ignites after leaving the launch tube. The English term 'rocket-propelled grenade' is rendered in Somali as 'gantaal ridis leh' (rocket-propelled warhead). It is primarily used to attack tanks, armoured vehicles, buildings, and fortified positions.
The system consists of two main components: the launch tube, which is reusable, and the warhead, which is replaced after each shot. The warhead is fitted with a small booster charge; when it leaves the tube, the warhead's motor ignites and accelerates it. Consequently, the recoil from firing is minimal, which makes it possible to fire even from confined spaces—though the back-blast remains a hazard to those nearby.
Brief history
The concept originated during World War II, derived from weapons such as the Panzerfaust and Bazooka. After the war, the Soviet Union developed early RPG variants, which proliferated to many countries. Later versions became among the most widely used in the world, owing to their low cost, robustness, and ease of training.
How the warhead functions
Standard warheads employ a technique called a shaped charge—the explosive material is formed into a cone or hollow shape lined with metal, so that when it detonates it creates a high-velocity metal jet that penetrates armour. There are also various specialized warheads: dual-purpose heads designed for reactive armour, fragmentation warheads, and warheads intended for use against personnel and structures.
Use and limitations
Effective range typically extends to several hundred metres and is affected by wind, projectile velocity, and line of sight. Because the launch tube is portable and lightweight, non-state armed groups have made extensive use of it. Armed forces have responded by employing thicker armour, active protection systems, and air defence networks against incoming warheads.