Flexible Two-in-One Solution Offers Standard or Commando Configurations
Rheinmetall has developed a new 60mm mortar for infantry and special forces, the company announced on 13 August. The RSG60 features innovative design and engineering characteristics, making this indirect fire system very light and easy to handle. A few quick manual adjustments turn the 15.8 kg standard infantry version into a commando mortar weighing just 6.8 kg, with no need for tools. This makes the RSG60 a two-in-one solution.
Depending on the ammunition and charges, the standard version can attain ranges of up to 3,200m, which can be increased by around 500m with a 30cm longer barrel. The commando variant of the RSG60 has a range of around 2,000 metres.
About 70cm long, the barrel is made of steel with a carbon fibre over-wrap. This assures the necessary stability at the same time as lower weight, resulting in a barrel that weighs around 30% less than a conventional steel mortar. The base plate is carbon fibre composite material. The novel design of this indirect fire weapon not only saves space, it can be set up and ready to fire in a matter of seconds. Furthermore, by loosening the retaining bolts, it is possible to separate the RSG60 from the base plate in around 30s, transforming it into a lighter-weight commando mortar.
Development of the new mortar began in October 2017 at Rheinmetall Waffe Munition, with the objective of augmenting the Group’s versatile family of 60mm ammunition and existing Rheinmetall Electronics fire control technology with a matching, future-oriented weapon system. Right from the start, development work therefore focused on low weight, speed and ergonomics.
