RL-36 Anti-Tank Launcher
| RL-36 Anti-Tank Launcher | |
|---|---|
| [[File:|300px]] | |
| Shoulder-fired 75mm anti-tank rocket launcher | |
| Service Data | |
| Type | Rocket launcher (shoulder-fired) |
| Origin | Gondara |
| Manufacturer | Gondaran State Arsenals |
| Used By | Army of Gondara |
| Design Date | 1936 |
| Service Entry | 1939 |
| Predecessor | None |
| Successor | In service |
| Technical Data | |
| Caliber | 75mm |
| Action | Rocket-propelled, open-tube launcher |
| Feed System | Single-shot, rear-loaded |
| Muzzle Velocity | ~90 m/s |
| Barrel Length | 60 in (152 cm) |
| Overall Length | 60 in (assembled) |
| Weight | 14 lbs (6.3 kg) |
| Crew | 3 (gunner, loader, ammunition bearer) |
| Sights | Iron sights |
| Effective Range | ~150 m |
| Maximum Range | ~350 m |
| Production Data | |
| Unit Cost | $150 |
| Variants | None |
Overview
The RL-36 Anti-Tank Launcher is a shoulder-fired, rocket-propelled weapon system designed to provide Gondaran infantry with organic short-range anti-armor capability. Developed in 1936 and entering service in 1939, the RL-36 reflects Gondara’s emphasis on mobility, simplicity, and immediate battlefield effectiveness.
The system enables infantry units to engage armored vehicles without reliance on towed or crew-served anti-tank guns.
Design Characteristics
The RL-36 is built around a lightweight, open-tube launcher optimized for portability and rapid deployment.
- Two-piece tube design for transport and storage - Rapid assembly under field conditions - Minimal mechanical components to ensure reliability - Rear-blast area required for safe firing
The launcher is intentionally simple, allowing operation and maintenance under harsh combat conditions.
Operation
The RL-36 operates as a single-shot, rear-loaded rocket launcher.
- Rocket inserted from rear of tube - Electrical or mechanical ignition initiates propulsion - Rocket exits tube under its own propulsion
The system produces significant backblast and requires clear space behind the operator.
Ammunition
The RL-36 fires a family of 75mm rockets, with the primary munition being a High-Explosive Anti-Tank (HEAT) round.
Standard characteristics:
- Shaped-charge warhead - Penetration capability against contemporary armored vehicles - Stable fin-stabilized flight
Secondary munitions may include:
- High-explosive (HE) - Smoke (limited use)
Tactical Role
The RL-36 is issued at the squad and platoon level as a dedicated anti-armor system.
Primary roles include:
- Engagement of armored vehicles at close range - Destruction of fortified positions - Emergency anti-structure capability
The system is most effective when used from concealed positions or ambush.
Crew Organization
The RL-36 is typically operated by a three-man team:
- Gunner — aims and fires the weapon - Loader — prepares and loads rockets - Ammunition Bearer — carries additional rockets
In vehicle-mounted or emergency use, the launcher may be operated by a single individual.
Operational Use
The RL-36 is designed for:
- Rapid deployment from mechanized transport - Short-duration engagements - Ambush and defensive operations
Due to its limited effective range, the system relies on positioning, concealment, and coordination with infantry elements.
Limitations
- Short effective range compared to anti-tank guns - Backblast hazard restricts firing positions - Single-shot operation limits rate of fire - Dependent on crew coordination for sustained use
Summary
The RL-36 Anti-Tank Launcher provides Gondaran infantry with a practical and mobile anti-armor solution. By prioritizing simplicity and effectiveness over mechanical complexity, it enables small units to counter armored threats while maintaining mobility and operational flexibility.