Nammo replaces Malaysian RPG-7s with hundreds M72 tank killers

Malaysia’s Ministry of Defence has awarded a contract to Nammo, a Norwegian-Finnish company, to modernize its anti-tank weaponry.

The M72 LAW-EC (Light Anti-Tank Weapon - Enhanced Capability) will replace the outdated RPG-7 rocket launchers previously used by the Malaysian Army, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media.

The contract includes the delivery of 800 M72 LAW-EC units.

While the exact value of the contract is not disclosed, each M72 LAW-EC unit is priced around $1,200. The Malaysian Army's current anti-tank inventory also includes the Carl Gustaf 84mm, Instalaza C90, and Saab Bofors AT4. The M72 LAW-EC is chosen to phase out the Russian-made RPG-7.

About the M72 LAW-EC

The M72 LAW-EC is a portable, single-use anti-tank weapon system that has been upgraded from the original M72 LAW to handle modern armored threats. It features a length of about 1 meter (39 inches) when extended and 0.67 meters (26 inches) when collapsed, with a weight of 3.5 kilograms (7.7 pounds), making it easy for soldiers to carry and deploy.

The system includes a pre-packaged launcher with an integrated sight, requiring minimal training for effective use. It fires a rocket-propelled grenade powered by a solid-fuel rocket motor, designed to penetrate armored targets with its high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT) warhead, which uses a shaped charge to focus explosive energy on a small area.

Advantages Over the RPG-7

The M72 LAW-EC offers several benefits compared to the RPG-7, including greater portability and ease of use. As a disposable system, it does not need reloading or maintenance in the field, facilitating rapid deployment in combat situations. Its lighter weight and compact size make it more manageable for infantry compared to the bulkier RPG-7.