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RPG-75



Overview

RPG-75

A number of expended ex-Polish RPG-75 launchers seen in collapsed and extended form.
Source: www.galloinc.com - © Copyright lies with original owner

Origin
Czechoslovakia
Type
Rocket launcher (disposable)
Entered service
1975
Status
Limited service
Development
Early 1970's
Developer
Czechoslovakia
Production
~1975 to ~1990 (RPG-75)
1990's - present (RPG-75-M)
2010 - present (RPG-75-TB)
Producer
Czechoslovakia
Czech Republic - ZEVETA Bojkovice
Number produced
Produced in quantity
Designations
RPG-75 | Reaktívny Protitankový Granát vzor 1975
Czech for "reactive anti-tank grenade, model of 1975"
Notable users
Czechoslovakia
Poland

Description

Introduction

The RPG-75 is a late Cold War era rocket launcher of Czechoslovak origin. It is a single shot disposable weapon for use against armored vehicles. Although it looks somewhat similar to the American M72 LAW and Soviet RPG-18 it functions in a different manner.

Design

The RPG-75 uses a two piece launcher that is extended before firing. Unlike the M72 LAW it is not a true rocket launcher. It functions more akin to a recoilless rifle, but is pre-packaged and for a single use only. Only the warhead exits the launch tube and the expulsion device remains in the disposable launch tube. The flip up sights consist of diopter rear sight and transparent front sight with range markings.

Firepower

The RPG-75 fires a single HEAT warhead which penetrates about 300 mm RHA. This was suitable against Cold War era tanks, but not against modern ones. The effective range is 300 m against static targets and 200 m against moving targets.

Users

The RPG-75 was adopted in large number by Czechoslovakia. It was exported, but saw limited adoption. Poland acquired post Soviet era derivatives for special forces use, including the thermobaric warhead model. The RPG-75 was also acquired by Ukraine following the rearmament effort after the occupation of Crimea.

Variants

Lethal models

RPG-75
Original production model developed and produced in Czechoslovakia. Features a single HEAT warhead with about 300 mm penetration.
RPG-75-M
Improved production model when production restarted in Czech Republic in the 1990's. Practically similar to original model. Claimed penetration of 330 mm RHA.
RPG-75-TB
Variant of RPG-75-M with thermobaric warhead. First shown in 2009 and reportedly in service since 2010. Has a much reduced penetration, but increased anti-personnel effect due to thermobaric warhead.

Training models

RPG-Nh-75
Live fire training variant with inert rocket with identical flight path as the lethal model.
RPG-Cv-75
Training variant with subcaliber training aid. Fires .32 ACP bullets to simulate firing at a firing range.
RPG-Šk-75
Instruction and drill model that does not fire any projectiles. Used for instructing soldiers in preparing, handling and sighting the weapon.

Details

Facts RPG-75
General
Origin
Czechoslovakia
Type
Rocket launcher
Crew
1
Lifespan
Disposable launcher
Dimensions
Weight
3.2 kg with protective covers
3.1 kg ready to fire
0.82 kg rocket
Length
633 mm transport configuration
890 mm extended
Warhead
Diameter
68 mm
Warhead type
Single HEAT with 0.32 kg A-IX-1explosive filler
Penetration
300 mm RHA
Velocity
189 m/s
Range
300 m effective
750 m theoretical
Arming distance
4 to 12 m from muzzle
Accessories
Sights
Mechanical, flip-up sights
200, 250 and 300 m range settings

Media