Why a heavy, tripod-mounted Soviet gun is a pirate's preferred weapon

Countries & Cities · Published 12 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: The SPG-9 might seem like an impractical relic of the Cold War due to its weight and mounting requirements. Yet, it remains a staple for maritime pirates and insurgent groups alike. Its secret lies in a specific ballistic profile that can bypass modern defense systems.

Developed by the Soviet Union and accepted into service in 1962, the SPG-9 Kop'yo (or 'Spear') is a 73mm caliber recoilless gun. Unlike its more famous counterpart, the RPG-7, which can be fired from the shoulder, the SPG-9 is heavy—weighing approximately 60 kilograms (130 lb). Because of this weight, it typically requires a two-person crew to move and must be mounted on vehicles, boats, or tripods. This lack of portability makes it less common for infantry but highly effective when integrated into 'technicals' in places like Somalia.

The weapon's mechanics are distinct: a small charge launches the projectile with an initial velocity of 250–400 metres per second. A series of offset holes imparts spin, and after traveling about 20 metres (66 ft), a rocket motor ignites in the base. This boosts the projectile to 700 metres per second before burning out. This high-speed delivery is why it was specifically recommended by Hamas for defeating the Israeli Trophy System; the system is designed to intercept slower incoming projectiles, but the SPG-9's speed makes it a difficult target to neutralize.

While primarily used as an anti-tank weapon firing HEAT or high-explosive rounds, its versatility has led to creative modifications. During the Battle of Bakhmut, members of the Wagner PMC modified ammunition so it could be fired from more portable RPG-7 launchers. This highlights a recurring theme in modern conflict: adapting heavy Soviet hardware to meet specific tactical needs, whether that means mounting it on skiffs for maritime piracy or modifying its rounds for greater mobility.

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