RPG-18
The RPG-18 Mukha is a Soviet short-range, disposable light anti-tank rocket launcher designed in 1972, based on the American M72 LAW. The RPG-18 has been in service in over 20 conflicts and used by over 20 armed forces across the world.
History
The RPG-18 is very similar to the US M72-series LAW anti-tank rocket launcher, with captured examples during the Vietnam War likely being sent to the Soviet Union. The RPG-18 has been succeeded by the RPG-22, a very similar design with a larger warhead.Description
The RPG-18 fires a 64 mm PG-18 high-explosive anti-tank warhead mounted on a small rocket able to engage targets within 200 meters. The warhead self-destructs six seconds after launch, placing a limit on range even if a sight was used that was effective with targets beyond 200 meters.The RPG-18 can penetrate up to 300 mm of conventional vehicle armor ; up to 500 mm of reinforced concrete; and up to 1,000 mm of brickwork. However, performance is significantly lessened when the RPG-18 is used against targets protected by HEAT-resistant explosive reactive armour or composite armor.
Unlike similar weapons, the RPG-18 requires only one operator as it is not reloadable.
Users
*Former users
- Chechen Republic of Ichkeria
- Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda
- : Used by DPR forces during the War in Donbas and the Russian invasion of Ukraine before their annexation by Russia in November 2022.
- Farabundo Marti National Liberation Front
- : Sandinista Popular Army
- : Passed on to successor states.
- Real Irish Republican Army
General
- Jones, Richard. Jane's Infantry Weapons 2005–06. Coulsdon: Jane's, 2005. .