RPG-40 “Klyuvka”
Ручной Противотанковый Гранатомёт-40 6Г40
The RPG-40 is a reusable shoulder-launched unguided Anti-Tank Rocket system, made with a doctrine of multi-purpose, it can fire many different rockets, capable of firing both 72mm and 105mm rockets.
The RPG-40 fires a powerful 105 mm PG-40V rocket, which has a tandem HEAT warhead. A precursor charge is used to defeat Explosive Reactive Armor (ERA). This rocket penetrates 650 mm of rolled homogenous armor behind ERA, or at least 750 mm without ERA. This anti-tank rocket is capable of disabling the latest and most protected Main Battle Tanks.
There is also a TBG-40V rocket with thermobaric warhead. It is a specialized munition for use against buildings, field fortifications, entrenched infantry, soft skinned and lightly armored vehicles.
Different rockets can be used to engage different targets, so the RPG-40 is a rather versatile weapon. Both 105 mm and 72 mm rockets have similar ballistics. This feature allows to use the same sights for different rockets.
The RPG-40 is an easy to use weapon. With a little training one man in every squad could carry one of these rocket launchers, giving each squad significant anti-armor and anti-structure capability. The RPG-40 is carried by two soldiers: an operator and his assistant carrying extra rockets. Two rockets can be clamped together for easier transportation. It takes 10 seconds for the operator to prepare the RPG-40 for firing. Maximum rate of fire is up to 3 to 4 launches per minute.