Rheinmetall Unveils SSW40 Squad Support Weapon in Live-Fire Demonstration

“(UNTERLÜß, Germany) – Rheinmetall has unveiled its latest infantry innovation, the SSW40 Squad Support Weapon, during a high-profile live-fire event at its Unterlüß Test Center. This represents the world’s first shoulder-fired, magazine-fed automatic grenade launcher in the 40mm Medium-Velocity (MV) caliber, marking a revolutionary leap in squad-level firepower.

Key Features and Field Performance

Medium-Velocity Range: By firing MV rounds with a flat trajectory and high payload, the SSW40 extends its effective range to 900meters, far beyond conventional 40mm low-velocity systems.turn0search0turn0search3.
Automatic Magfed Design: The weapon features a detachable magazine holding three to five rounds magazine, with a full-auto capacity of up to 300 rounds per minute – an industry first for infantry grenade launchersturn0search0turn0search15.
Ergonomic Handling: Weighing approximately 4 kg and 80 cm in length, its controls are similar to those of an assault rifle—including ambidextrous safety switches, a bolt catch, and a break-barrel mechanism for loading long rounds.
Recoil Dampening: A patented hydropneumatic system keeps recoil similar to that of a low-velocity weapon, ensuring ease of control even when firing MV roundsturn0search0search0search3.
Advanced Munitions: Compatible with the full LV/MV ammunition range, including Programmable Airburst, HEDP, HEBE, Illumination, and Anti-Drone roundsturn0search0turn0search4
Rheinmetall offers a wide range of 40mm low, medium and high velocity cartridges, known for their accuracy and reliability in all climatic conditions. The SSW40 grenade launcher complements this product line.

Live-fire trials: Proof of capability

During the demonstration:

Reporters and selected defense personnel used steel targets at 100-500 meters and a decommissioned vehicle at 250 meters.
Shooters reported high hit accuracy, excellent handling and negligible recoil differences between LV and MV rounds.
The red-dot sight facilitated rapid target acquisition, requiring minor aiming adjustments at long distances <turn0search1.

Participants praised the weapon’s responsiveness and significantly improved accuracy over legacy systems.

Strategic Impact and Future Outlook

Designed to close the performance gap between 400m assault rifles and crew-served grenade launchers, the SSW40 enhances infantry capabilities across multiple mission types – from urban warfare to counter-UAV operations <turn0search2turn0search6.

Rheinmetall expects full qualification to be completed by Q4 2025**, with first customer validation expected in yearturn0search0search0search4. A NATO partner has already secured initial purchases.

The SSW40 can be equipped with an airburst capability by integrating the FCSTacRay ballistic system – which includes a laser rangefinder and ballistic computer – with an IR programming unit (IR-PU).

Expert Comment

Naval Power at RTX/Raytheon President Barbara Borgonovi noted that “the Barracuda’s capabilities will dramatically improve safety and efficiency” (although not related to the SSW40). Returning to the focus of the phase: Defenders say the SSW40’s programmable airburst round and ergonomic design position it as a “game-changer for dismounted infantry,” enabling rapid response to emerging threats in a variety of environments.

Outlook for Infantry Modernization

Rheinmetall’s SSW40 offers armed forces a powerful, agile, and versatile solution. Equipped with extended-range ammunition and a rifle-like form, the weapon is poised to redefine squad-level support – better engaging threats behind cover, supporting maneuver units, and countering aerial threats like drones. Empowering infantry.

Its full qualification and The deployment could spark a broader shift toward the adoption of automatic grenade launchers by NATO members and allied militaries.

FAQs

Q1. How is the SSW40 different from conventional grenade launchers?

The SSW40 is the world’s first shoulder-fired, magazine-fed automatic grenade launcher in the 40mm medium-velocity (MV) caliber. Unlike conventional low-velocity launchers, it can fire rounds up to 900 meters with minimal recoil. Its detachable magazine and automatic firing make it quick and easy for infantry squads to deliver precise fire in urban combat or in open terrain.

Q2. Can the SSW40 handle programmable airburst rounds?

Yes. The SSW40 works with Rheinmetall’s full range of LV/MV ammunition, including programmable airburst rounds. Using the FCSTacRay ballistic system with a laser rangefinder and IR programming unit, soldiers can hit targets with high accuracy behind cover or on moving drones, making it a versatile tool for modern infantry.

Q3. How easy is it for infantry soldiers to carry and use?

The weapon weighs about 4 kg and is 80 cm long, with ergonomic features such as ambidextrous control and an assault rifle-like bolt catch. Its patented hydropneumatic recoil system fires comfortably even with MV rounds, allowing soldiers to work effectively without fatigue during long missions.

Q4. When will the SSW40 be available for military use?

Rheinmetall expects full qualification by the fourth quarter of 2025, and initial acceptance from customers will be received shortly. NATO partners have already received initial orders. This weapon is trending in online defense innovation discussions, particularly for its potential in counter-drone operations and urban warfare scenarios.