Taking The Term Rocket-Propelled Grenade To The Next Level, The GRP-20

The GPR-20, a newly proposed system, is an under-barrel rocket-propelled grenade launcher that stands out with its innovative design. Unlike traditional Russian and Western grenade launchers, the GPR-20 employs single-shot disposable tubes or barrels, offering unique advantages such as increased range and reduced weapon mount weight. This innovative design makes it a promising addition to the arsenal, sparking intrigue and excitement among military professionals and defense industry experts.

That said, the range of this new munition is double that of a traditional GP series VOG 40mm grenade. Some reports state an 800-meter max range. The GP series ladder sight is calibrated at 400 meters. Its advertised max range is 800 meters, and its warhead is more significant than the traditional VOG-25 40mm grenade.

 “In 2016, the Kalashnikov concern began to practically implement the concept of an under-barrel grenade launcher with a rocket-propelled grenade after the Alatau R&D project. During the work on the Garant R&D project (2016-2018), technical solutions were found that made it possible to transform the concept into a real firing structure, and the prototypes of the GPR appeared.”

Cited by Kalashnikov Magazine ( https://www.kalashnikov.ru/gpr-20-perspektivnyj-podstvolnyj-granatomyot/ )

Besides the increased range, every grenadier would appreciate the weight reduction. For example, a current Russian GP-25 weighs 3.3 lbs. or 1.5 kg; the GPR-20 mount adds only 8.8 ounces or 250 grams to the weapon. The weight of the rocket-propelled grenade and its self-contained unit is currently unstated.

Second, the typical loadout would vary due to varying operational demands and personal preferences. I'll pick eight grenades for this example; in this case, the grenadier would be carrying eight extra launch tubes called transport and launch containers. With the gain in range, a payload, there will be a gain in weight; this turns into the M-60 situation where the gun teams carry around a separate bipod per barrel; instead, the soldier is carrying extra mini-missile silos. The burden has been removed from the weapon, making it easier to manipulate, but one would hope the soldier's combat loadout does not increase too much.

Layout

The module is designed for ease of use, with the trigger housing safely positioned on the left and right sides. The folding ladder sight, mounted and graduated from 100 to 400 meters, further enhances the GPR-20's user-friendly design.

The unit appears to have standard GP series mechanical safety that blocks firing when not mounted to the weapon. This safety must be disengaged for standalone use.

The transport and launch tube is installed by sliding backward onto rails; the operator's hand is under the tube. This would make loading and unloading safe, not putting the operator's fingers into a barrel, compared to the GP-25, which has muzzle loading of the VOG-25 40mm caseless grenades.

How it works

From what I gathered, when the trigger is pulled, an electronic signal is generated to ignite the motor, which is then launched from the tube without any additional expelling charge. However, one source states there is an expelling charge. This design likely simplifies the rocket-propelled grenade. The recoil experienced is comparable to that of a 12-gauge shotgun, which is how most would describe firing a GP. One of the main goals was to reduce recoil while gaining extended ranges.

The rocket-launched portion of the grenade is a fascinating aspect of the GPR-20, but it also introduces its challenges as new technology is developed and tested on a larger scale. For instance, electrical contacts are located at the rear end of the transport and launch container, as well as vents to vent the expanding gases of the rocket motor igniting. When the grenade is fired, a signal activates an electric charge that starts the rocket motor. However, this design also presents potential issues, such as corrosion due to inadequate storage, highlighting the need for an additional method to check serviceability.

Future

The GPR-20 system features an innovative design that marks a significant shift in the Russian defense industry. Unlike traditional grenade launchers, the GPR-20 is explicitly designed to enhance soldiers' capabilities by making the weapon easier to carry and use. An added benefit of the GPR-20 may help reduce wear and damage to AK-based rifles, which often show signs of deterioration after extended use past 400 rounds with standard GP series grenade launchers.

The movement of the gas block from extended grenade launcher use also shows one of the negative aspects of the dimple retention method. The GP-25 manual notes only using the GP-25 for 400 rounds before moving it to a different AK. Photo source unknown.

The GPR-20 is anticipated to have an extended range, potentially incorporating electronic sights and various warheads that utilize airburst fuzes. However, it raises questions about whether this direction pursuing this extended range is the right direction for the military. For instance, Milkor USA has developed a medium-pressure 40x51mm grenade that can reach up to 800 meters, compatible with existing grenade launching systems. However, it remains uncertain if this will be widely available. The future of the GPR-20 could see further advancements in its range, accuracy, and versatility, making it a game-changer in grenade launchers.