Kalashnikov GP-46 Grenade Launcher Makes Int’l Debut

Our Bureau - : Sep 25, 2024 - : 2:46 am

The Kalashnikov GP-46 40x46 mm under-barrel grenade launcher made its international debut abroad at the 5th International Defense Industry Exhibition ADEX 2024. It is designed to engage enemy personnel in trenches and unarmored vehicles.
The GP-46, a 40x46 mm grenade launcher, is designed to engage enemy personnel in trenches and unarmored vehicles.

The grenade launcher can be coupled to a Kalashnikov rifle or used independently with a quick-detach buttstock module. It allows for for both low-angle and high-angle shots. When mounted on an AK, the grenade launcher does not impede the rifle's ability to fire. Reloading the grenade launcher involves rotating the barrel to the left or right.
The grenade launcher can be fired from the shoulder or from cover and is capable of direct aim shots up to 400 meters, engaging both specific and area targets.

BOX
Key specifications:
Length, mm: 380
Caliber, mm: 40
Weight, kg: 1.6
Effective firing range (50 m increments), m: 400
Rate of fire, shots per minute: 5-6

Meanwhile, Kalashnikov develops single catapult for its drones based on SMO experience
A project for the development of a single ground launching device (catapult) for internally produced guided loitering munitions (GLMs) and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is being undertaken by Kalashnikov Concern JSC. The project is carried out at the customers' special-purpose departments' request. Testing of the prototype is presently underway.
"A single catapult for UAVs and GLMs of different weight classes is a considerable technical challenge. By using a single ground launch solution, customers will be able to greatly boost our drones' efficiency and cut down on the amount of time needed for training crews," the project developers stated.

The Russian army has been actively using unmanned aerial vehicles from Zala Aero, an affiliate of the Kalashnikov concern.