RPG-7

The RPG-7 was developed in the Soviet Union as a reusable shoulder-fired grenade launcher for infantry anti-armor and assault roles. Its historical importance is exceptional: it spread through Soviet allies, licensed production, exports, captures, and black markets to become one of the most recognizable weapons in modern conflict. The launcher outlived its original tank-killing assumptions because new warheads expanded its use against bunkers, buildings, light vehicles, and personnel.

Technically, the RPG-7 uses a reusable launch tube and fin-stabilized grenades boosted by rocket propulsion after launch. The basic launcher is relatively simple, but the ammunition family is broad: high-explosive anti-tank, tandem-charge, thermobaric, fragmentation, and other rounds have been developed. Accuracy depends heavily on operator skill, sighting, wind, target movement, and range estimation, especially against moving armored vehicles.

Operationally, the RPG-7 remains relevant because it gives small units a portable weapon against armor, buildings, and close-range hard targets. It has limitations against modern main battle tanks with reactive and active protection, but it remains dangerous against lighter vehicles, flanks, urban targets, and helicopters at low altitude under favorable conditions. Its global spread makes it essential for understanding irregular warfare and infantry anti-armor tactics.