The Soviet RPG-2 turned a simple steel tube into a formidable anti-tank weapon

Wars & Conflicts · Published 15 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Emerging from post-World War II Soviet engineering, the RPG-2 became the first successful man-portable, shoulder-fired anti-tank weapon of its kind. By refining earlier rocket designs into a reusable, robust launcher, the Soviets created a versatile tool that would eventually see widespread global distribution and change the nature of irregular warfare.

Developed by the GSKB-30 design bureau, the RPG-2 was a direct evolution of the failed RPG-1 project. While the RPG-1 attempted to merge the mechanics of the German Panzerfaust and the American Bazooka, it struggled with insufficient range and armor penetration. The RPG-2 solved these issues by utilizing a larger 40 mm propellant cartridge and an 80 mm high-explosive anti-tank warhead. This configuration allowed the weapon to pierce up to 180 mm of homogeneous armor, making it a threat to most tanks of the era.

The weapon's mechanical ingenuity lay in its simplified design. Unlike its predecessor, which required an external tube for the fins, the RPG-2 featured a design where the entire propellant section fit inside the smooth-bore steel tube. This allowed engineers to mount the trigger and sights at the front, resulting in a more compact and durable assembly. A thin wooden covering on the tube protected the operator from heat during firing and improved handling in extreme cold. Weighing 4.48 kilograms, the system was typically operated by a two-man crew.

Entering service in 1954, the RPG-2 became a staple for Soviet allies and guerrilla forces worldwide. It was produced under license in countries including China, North Vietnam, and North Korea, where it was often known by local designations like the B-40. Its effectiveness against armored vehicles and even aircraft was demonstrated during the Vietnam War, where it was used to down multiple U.S. military helicopters. Despite being succeeded by the more advanced RPG-7, the RPG-2's legacy persists through its widespread use in various global conflicts and its role as a foundational design for modern shoulder-fired weaponry.

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