RPG-16
Overview
RPG-16
Left side view of RPG-16 launcher in firing position but with no PG-16 rocket in the launcher.
Source: www.army.lv -
© copyright lies with original owner
Grom (nickname, Russian for "thunder")
6G9 (GRAU index for launcher)
7P7 (GRAU index for warhead)
TKB-034 (design project)
Description
Introduction
The RPG-16 is a late Cold War era rocket launcher of Soviet origin. It was developed in the late 1960's as a longer range alternative to the RPG-7 for airborne forces. Whereas the RPG-7 was produced in huge quantities and widely exported the RPG-16 played only a minor role.
Design
The reusable launcher of the RPG-16 is an enlarged version of the RPG-7. For transportation the launcher can be broken down in two halves in a similar way as the RPG-7D. Unlike the RPG-7 the rocket fits entirely within the launch tube. The larger diameter launch tube allows for a larger rocket motor, but limits the size of the enclosed warhead. Iron sights are fitted but the optical sight is the primary means of aiming.
Firepower
A single operator may use the RPG-16. The only rocket available is the PG-16 HEAT round. This has a 300mm RHA penetration. The warhead is effective against armored vehicles and infantry positions. Modern tanks cannot be engaged over the frontal arc. Stationary targets can be engaged out to 800 meters. Usually a two man team carries a single launcher and five rockets.
Users
The RPG-16 was primarily used by Soviet airborne forces. It was actively used in the Afghanistan campaign. Unlike other Soviet infantry weapons the RPG-16 was hardly exported. Low rate production was maintained until the 1990's.
Identification
RPG-16
Illustration of RPG-16 launcher in firing position (top) and disassembled for transportation (bottom).
Source: www.army.lv -
© copyright lies with original owner
This weapon was produced only in a single variant with only a single type of ammunition available. Overall the RPG-16 looks rather similar to the RPG-7.
Distinguishing features of the RPG-16 are the larger diameter launch tube, having a large metal bipod near the muzzle, the pistol grip is located in front of the vertical grip and a wooden shoulder protector is fitted further towards the rear.
Since the PG-16 rocket does not extend from the launch tube any rocket launcher seen with oversize warhead extending from the launch tube is not a RPG-16.
Details
Media
RPG-16
Forward view of RPG-16 launcher with PG-16 rocket alongside.
Source: V. Chobitok
Copyright: copyright lies with original owner
RPG-16
Soviet VDV airborne soldier storming a position with a RPG-16 launcher without optical sight.
Source: www.army.lv
Copyright: copyright lies with original owner
RPG-16 ammunition
Illustration of PG-16 rocket as loaded into the launcher (top) and when in flight (bottom). Note that top and bottom illustration differ in scale.
Source: www.army.lv
Copyright: copyright lies with original owner
RPG-16 sight reticle
Illustration of the recticle of the optical sight used on the RPG-16.
Source: www.army.lv
Copyright: copyright lies with original owner
RPG-16
Left side view of RPG-16 launcher with PG-16 rocket alongside.
Source: www.military-today.com
Copyright: copyright lies with original owner
Related articles
RPG-7
At a glance the RPG-16 looks very similar to the RPG-7. Whereas the oversize warheads of the RPG-7 allowed for upgrade potential, the RPG-16 became obsolete quite quickly.