Rheinmetall is showcasing the world’s first automatic, magazine-loaded, shoulder-fired grenade launcher at DSEI 2023. 

Both weight, dimensions, and handling of the SSW40 are similar to assault rifles. Thanks to a recoil-reducing and self-regulating recoil system, the SSW40 (Squad Support Weapon 40) can fire all available 40 mm Low Velocity (LV) ammunition types as well as the new 40 mm Medium Velocity (MV) ammunition.

The new MV ammunition has a significantly increased velocity and a flat trajectory, allowing targets to be engaged more quickly and increasing the effective range of the system to 900 m. Combined with the broad spectrum of Rheinmetall’s 40 mm LV/MV ammunition portfolio, the user achieves unprecedented flexibility and effectiveness on the battlefield.

▶️ #Rheinmetall is presenting the world's first automatic, magazine-loaded, shoulder-fired #grenade launcher at #DSEI2023.

❗️Visit our booth H5-110 to learn more about the #SSW40https://t.co/KD0hcIhoI9 #DSEI @DSEI_event #Defence #Military #Army #RheinmetallatDSEI pic.twitter.com/vNoTrd17cP

— Rheinmetall (@RheinmetallAG) September 13, 2023

Due to the 40 mm MV ammunition, the development of the SSW40 is closely related to the remote-controlled turret TSWA for the Puma infantry fighting vehicle. 

The TSWA enables the engagement of targets in the immediate vicinity of the vehicle with both non-lethal effectors as well as the lethal warheads of the new 40 mm MV ammunition family. The market introduction of this ammunition family was decisive for the SSW40, the development of which will be completed in 2023.

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The 40 mm MV ammunition family combines Rheinmetall’s combined experience in 40 mm LV and High Velocity (HV) ammunition. Therefore, the SSW40 can be used with the following ammunition types:

• HE Fragmentation (HEFRAG)
• High Explosive Anti-Tank (HEAT)
• Door Breaching 
• High Explosive Air Burst (HEAB)
• Training (TPM, TPM-T)
• Illumination / Fog
• Sound & Flash and Riot Control Ammunition (CS)

By quick magazine change, the SSW40 offers superior firepower in any terrain, any situation, even against medium-weight armored vehicles.

The interfaces on the SSW40 also allow the use of many accessories like laser designation modules, fire control units, IR programmers for airburst ammunition as well as integration on ring mounts and bipods.

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