The RPG-29 series is afforded two specialized types of projectiles made up of the "PG-29V" and the "TBG-29V". PG-29V is the anti-armor projectile of choice intended to be used against armored vehicles and even against fortified structures. The type makes use of a "tandem-charge" High-Explosive Anti-Tank (HEAT) warhead for the role. The tandem-charge nature ensures that the main detonation is preceded by a smaller penetrative detonation function which is useful in defeating such preventative measures as Explosive Reactive Armor (ERA) blocks. The TBG-29V is classified as the RPG-29's "anti-personnel" projectile. As such, this form is utilized against concentrations of enemy troops or "soft targets" where its thermobaric formula creates a fuel-air explosive effect at the intended area - proving lethal to anyone around the detonation area at the moment of impact. Eight spring-loaded fins maintain the rocket's flight trajectory. Recoil is inherently violent but manageable with exposure and training.
The RPG-29 lists a rated muzzle velocity of 920 feet per second which provides for excellent penetration value at range while effective range is out to 1,600 feet. Visual ranging is accomplished by way of the integrated optics package or through use of the basic iron sights which requires that the target or target area be "line of sight" from the firer. When set up for firing with the rocket placed in the breech, the weapon showcases a running length of 6 feet. The weapon can then be broken down into a more compact 3 foot length for transport and a shoulder strap facilitates carrying. An operator can, therefore, still managed his basic assault rifle/light machine gun with the RPG-29 launcher held across his back, the weapon ready to be used as needed. Since the launch tube is reusable, the operator can carry several reloads into the fight.
RPG-29 rocket launchers were known to be utilized in the 2003 American invasion of Iraq by Iraqi military personnel. Their ongoing use eventually showcased the weapon's ability to defeat even the most stoutly armored American M1 Abrams and British Challenger 2 tanks in service - these once deemed impervious to all known anti-tank instruments of war. In 2006, Hezbollah guerilla forces in Lebanon found success with their RPG-29s against Israeli armor with these weapons believing to have originated from Syria - a historically Soviet/Russian military ally in the region. Such combat experiences has certainly shown the value of the RPG-29 against all other preceding Soviet rocket propelled grenade weapons to this point.
The RPG-29 was eventually issued to Soviet allies Czechoslovakia and East Germany. Other operators of the type went on to include Bulgaria, Brazil, Cuba; Iran, Mexico, Pakistan, Syria, Ukraine and Vietnam as well Hezbollah forces.
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