RPG-18

The RPG-18 Mukha is a Russian short-range, disposable light anti-tank rocket launcher.

History[]

The RPG-18 is very similar to the US M72-series anti-tank rocket and was developed after the Soviet military obtained M72s from its allies in Vietnam. The RPG-18 has been succeeded by the RPG-22, a very similar design with a larger warhead.

Description[]

The RPG-18 fires a 64mm PG-18 HEAT warhead mounted on a small rocket capable of engaging any target within 200m. The warhead self-destructs 6 seconds after launch, placing definite limits on the range even if a sight was used that was effective with targets beyond 200m. The RPG-18 itself can penetrate up to 375mm of conventional armor. However, performance is significantly diminished when the RPG-18 is employed against targets protected by HEAT-resistant ERA or composite armor.

Unlike better known weapons, the RPG-18 requires only one operator because it is not reloadable. Assistant grenadiers are used to help reload the RPG-2, RPG-7, and RPG-16 weapons systems.