New rifle grenades introduced
01 January 1991
New rifle grenades introduced
artdoc December=1991
British Army units stationed in Northern Ireland have been issued
with anti-tank missiles which are launched from a rifle. The new
missiles, made available from 31 July, are made by the French
armaments company Luchaire and are classed as a light rifle
grenade. The grenade is capable of being launched from a standard
issue infantry SA80 rifle, is 15 inches long and is supposed to
have a range of 360 metres. The weapon was used extensively
during the Gulf war on a trial basis, where it proved popular
with soldiers, according to an army statement. Now it is being
deployed to strengthen border units. Military sources claim that
the weapon will only be used in rural areas to deter IRA attacks
on border checkpoints and sentry posts. A spokesperson said, `the
purpose of the weapon is not to stop the vehicle carrying
explosives but to give soldiers the ability to apply appropriate
violence back. In essence, to inflict casualties on the terrorist
driving it at a checkpoint.... We are hoping that the terrorists,
knowing that we now have a weapon which can do them considerable
damage, will be deterred from launching large bombs in lorries,
vans or trailers at security bases.' No details were given
regarding the rules of engagement for the grenade.
Belfast Telegraph, 29.8.91; Irish News 30.8.91