Javelin I Rocket
| Javelin I (75mm Infantry Rocket) | |
|---|---|
| File:Javelin I Schematic.png | |
| Standard 75mm infantry rocket for the RL-36 launcher | |
| Service Data | |
| Type | Unguided anti-tank rocket |
| 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 | Fin-stabilized rocket |
| Feed System | N/A (launcher-fired munition) |
| Muzzle Velocity | ~90 m/s |
| Barrel Length | N/A |
| Overall Length | 32 in (81 cm) |
| Weight | 6.0 lbs (2.7 kg) |
| Crew | Launcher-dependent |
| Sights | Launcher-based |
| Effective Range | ~150 m |
| Maximum Range | ~350 m |
| Production Data | |
| Unit Cost | $12 |
| Variants | HEAT, HE (limited), Smoke (limited) |
Overview
The Javelin I is a 75mm unguided infantry rocket developed for use with the RL-36 Anti-Tank Launcher. Entering service in 1939, it provides Gondaran infantry with a lightweight, portable anti-armor munition designed for short-range engagements.
The rocket serves as the primary ammunition type for RL-36 teams and is optimized for simplicity, reliability, and battlefield effectiveness.
Design Characteristics
The Javelin I is a fin-stabilized rocket built around a shaped-charge warhead and a simple solid-fuel propulsion system.
- Fixed tail fins for in-flight stabilization - Steel body with simple internal structure - Rear-mounted rocket motor - No guidance or control surfaces
The design prioritizes ease of production and ruggedness over aerodynamic refinement.
Propulsion
The rocket is powered by a solid-fuel motor designed for consistent thrust over a short burn duration.
- Moderate acceleration to reduce launcher stress - Stable flight path within effective range - No onboard guidance or correction
The propulsion system is tuned to match the RL-36’s open-tube launch design and recoil characteristics.
Warhead
The primary warhead is a High-Explosive Anti-Tank (HEAT) shaped charge.
- Penetration: ~90 mm rolled homogeneous armor (RHA) - Warhead weight: ~3.5 lbs (1.6 kg) - Designed for engagement of contemporary armored vehicles
Fuse
- Instantaneous piezoelectric impact fuse - Detonates upon contact with target surface - Optimized for shaped-charge performance
Tactical Role
The Javelin I is employed as the standard anti-armor munition for infantry units equipped with the RL-36.
Primary uses include:
- Engagement of armored vehicles at close range - Destruction of fortified positions - Emergency anti-structure capability
The rocket is most effective when used in ambush or defensive engagements.
Operational Use
The Javelin I is carried and deployed by RL-36 teams as part of squad or platoon-level anti-armor capability.
- Transported by ammunition bearer - Loaded immediately prior to firing - Fired from prepared or concealed positions
Due to its limited range and unguided nature, effective use depends heavily on positioning and crew coordination.
Limitations
- Limited effective range (~150 m) - Unguided flight reduces accuracy at distance - Backblast constraints from RL-36 launcher - Single-use munition requires resupply for sustained engagement
Summary
The Javelin I rocket provides Gondaran infantry with a practical and reliable anti-armor munition. Its simple construction and effective shaped-charge design allow it to counter contemporary armored threats while remaining lightweight and easy to produce.