Intro
Discover the power of the M72 LAW, a portable, one-shot, 66mm light anti-tank weapon. Learn about its origins, design, and effectiveness in combat, plus its use in various military conflicts. Get the inside scoop on this iconic rocket launchers features, limitations, and real-world applications in this in-depth article.
The M72 Light Anti-Tank Weapon (LAW) is a portable, disposable rocket launcher designed to destroy tanks and other armored vehicles. The M72 LAW has been in service for over five decades, and its reliability, effectiveness, and affordability have made it a popular choice for military forces around the world. Here are seven facts about the M72 Light Anti-Tank Weapon:
Design and Development
The M72 LAW was developed in the 1960s by the Talley Defense Systems division of the aerospace company, Hercules Inc. The design goal was to create a lightweight, compact, and easy-to-use rocket launcher that could penetrate armor. The M72 LAW consists of a fiberglass tube with a pre-loaded rocket, a firing mechanism, and a simple sighting system.
Characteristics and Features
The M72 LAW weighs approximately 2.5 kg (5.5 lbs) and is 895 mm (35.2 inches) long. It has a muzzle velocity of 405 m/s (1,333 ft/s) and an effective range of 200-1,000 meters (656-3,280 feet). The warhead is a high-explosive, anti-tank (HEAT) rocket with a penetration capability of up to 250 mm (9.8 inches) of armor.
Operational History
The M72 LAW has seen extensive use in various conflicts, including the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, and the War in Afghanistan. It has been used by numerous countries, including the United States, Israel, and various NATO nations. The M72 LAW has proven effective against armored vehicles, fortifications, and even aircraft.
Variants and Upgrades
Over the years, the M72 LAW has undergone several upgrades and modifications. The most notable variant is the M72A2, which features an improved warhead and a revised sighting system. Other variants include the M72A3 and the M72A5, which offer enhanced penetration capabilities and accuracy.
Advantages and Disadvantages
The M72 LAW has several advantages, including its portability, ease of use, and affordability. It is also relatively lightweight and compact, making it an ideal choice for infantry units. However, the M72 LAW has some disadvantages, such as its limited range and accuracy. Additionally, the warhead can be affected by wind and other environmental factors.
Modernization and Replacement
In recent years, the M72 LAW has been gradually replaced by more modern and advanced anti-tank systems, such as the M136 AT4 and the FGM-172 SRAW. These newer systems offer improved range, accuracy, and penetration capabilities. However, the M72 LAW remains in service with many countries due to its reliability, simplicity, and low cost.
Gallery of M72 LAW
M72 LAW Image Gallery
FAQs
What is the M72 LAW?
+The M72 LAW is a portable, disposable rocket launcher designed to destroy tanks and other armored vehicles.
What are the advantages of the M72 LAW?
+The M72 LAW has several advantages, including its portability, ease of use, and affordability.
What are the disadvantages of the M72 LAW?
+The M72 LAW has some disadvantages, such as its limited range and accuracy.
As the M72 LAW continues to serve as a reliable and effective anti-tank system, its legacy as a simple yet deadly weapon remains unchanged. Despite the development of more advanced systems, the M72 LAW remains a testament to the ingenuity and innovation of its designers.