Raketsprutor

Raketsprutor, often translated as rocket launchers or recoilless rifles, are portable weapons designed to fire rockets or projectiles. They are typically used by infantry to engage armored vehicles, fortifications, and other hardened targets. The term "raketspruta" itself can encompass a variety of weapon systems, but generally refers to shoulder-fired or tripod-mounted devices.

These weapons function by igniting a propellant charge within the rocket's motor, generating thrust that propels the projectile. Many designs employ a recoilless principle, expelling a portion of the propellant gases in the opposite direction of the projectile. This counter-thrust significantly reduces the weapon's recoil, making it more manageable for a single operator.

The projectiles fired from raketsprutor can vary widely, including HEAT (High-Explosive Anti-Tank) rounds designed to penetrate armor, high-explosive fragmentation rounds for anti-personnel use, and other specialized munitions. Their portability and effectiveness against a range of targets have made them a common element in modern military arsenals.

While primarily associated with anti-armor roles, the versatility of raketsprutor has led to their deployment in various combat scenarios. Their relatively simple operation and significant firepower have cemented their place as a crucial weapon system for infantry units worldwide.