M72 LAW#Variants
{{Short description|Anti-tank rocket-propelled grenade launcher}}
{{Distinguish|MBT LAW}}
{{Infobox weapon
| name = M72 LAW
| image = File:66 kertasinko 75.JPG
| image_size = 300
| caption = An M72 LAW in extended position
| origin = United States
| type = Anti-tank rocket-propelled grenade launcher{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=NDa1CwAAQBAJ&q=m72+law+rpg&pg=PA34|title=The Rocket Propelled Grenade|first=Gordon L.|last=Rottman|date=15 March 2011|publisher=Bloomsbury Publishing|access-date=14 March 2018|via=Google Books|isbn=9781849081542}}
| is_ranged = yes
| is_explosive = yes
| service = 1963–present
| used_by = See Operators
| wars = {{Plain list|
- Vietnam War
- Cambodian Civil War
- Laotian Civil War
- Sino-Vietnamese War{{cite web|title=浴火重生——对越自卫反击战对我国轻武器发展的影响|url= https://m.fx361.com/news/2014/0923/3130795.html |date=23 Sep 2014|access-date=5 Aug 2022}}
Lebanese Civil War{{cite book|title=Armies in Lebanon 1982–84|url=https://archive.org/details/armieslebanon00katz|url-access=limited|series=Men-at-Arms 165|first1=Sam|last1= Katz|first2= Lee E|last2= Russell|date=25 Jul 1985|isbn=9780850456028|publisher=Osprey Publishing|page=[https://archive.org/details/armieslebanon00katz/page/n7 8]}} - Nicaraguan Revolution
- Falklands War
- Salvadoran Civil War
- Gulf War
- Bougainville Civil War{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LDpvxQe_Jhg&list=LLItb2dLp-6NlYuBFl4AwvKg&index=129|title=The Coconut Revolution (2001, 50min) (480x360)|website=youtube.com|access-date=14 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160309041354/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LDpvxQe_Jhg&list=LLItb2dLp-6NlYuBFl4AwvKg&index=129|archive-date=9 March 2016|url-status=live}}
- Somali Civil War
- Bosnian War
- War in Afghanistan
- Iraq War
- Syrian Civil War
- Yemeni Civil War
- Russo-Ukrainian War
- Gaza war
}}
| designer = FA Spinale, CB Weeks and PV Choate
| design_date = Patent filed 1963
| manufacturer = {{Plain list|
- Norway: NAMMO (Raufoss, Norway)
- U.S.: NAMMO Defense Systems (Mesa, Arizona)
- Turkey: under license by MKEK
}}
| production_date =
| number =
| variants =
| weight = {{convert|2.5|kg|lb|abbr=on}} (M72A1–3) / {{cvt|3.6|kg|lb}} (M72A4–7){{cite web |last1=Cooke |first1=Gary |title=M72 Light Anti-tank Weapon System (LAW) |url=https://www.inetres.com/gp/military/infantry/antiarmor/M72.html |website=www.inetres.com |publisher=Gary's U.S. Infantry Weapons Reference Guide}}
| length = {{convert|24.8|in|abbr=on|order=flip}} (unarmed)
{{convert|34.67|in|abbr=on|order=flip}} (armed)
| part_length =
| width =
| height =
| crew =
| cartridge =
| caliber = {{cvt|66|mm|in}}
| action =
| rate =
| velocity = {{cvt|145|m/s|ft/s}}(M72A1–3)
{{cvt|200|m/s|ft/s}}(M72A4–7){{Cite web |last=Nammo |date=2018 |title=NAMMO AMMUNITION HANDBOOK |url=https://www.nammo.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/nammo_ammo_handbook_aw_screen_updated.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220531163133/https://www.nammo.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/nammo_ammo_handbook_aw_screen_updated.pdf |archive-date=31 May 2022 |access-date=9 February 2025 |website=Nammo}}
| range = {{convert|200|m|ft|abbr=on}}, {{convert|220|m|ft|abbr=on}} (A4–7)
| max_range =
| feed =
| sights =
| diameter =
| filling =
| filling_weight =
| detonation = Point-initiated, base-detonated
| yield =
}}
The M72 LAW (light anti-tank weapon, also referred to as the light anti-armor weapon or LAW as well as LAWS: light anti-armor weapons system) is a portable one-shot {{cvt|66|mm|in}} unguided anti-tank weapon.
In early 1963, the M72 LAW was adopted by the U.S. Army and U.S. Marine Corps as their primary individual infantry anti-tank weapon, replacing the M31 HEAT rifle grenade and the M20A1 "Super Bazooka" in the U.S. Army. It was subsequently adopted by the U.S. Air Force to serve in an anti-emplacement and anti-armor role in airbase defense.Mary T. Cagle "History of the TOW Missile System", page 10, U.S. Army, 1977.The U.S. Army partially replaced the Super Bazooka not only with the M72 LAW, but also the M67 recoilless rifle, and U.S. Marines kept the Super Bazooka in service until the late 1960s.{{citation needed|date=October 2021}}
In the early 1980s, the M72 was slated to be replaced by the FGR-17 Viper. However, the Viper program was canceled by Congress and the M136 AT4 was adopted instead. At that time, its nearest equivalents were the Swedish Pskott m/68 (Miniman) and the French SARPAC.
Background
The increased importance of tanks and other armored vehicles in World War II caused a need for portable infantry weapons to deal with them. The first to be used (with varying successes) were Molotov cocktails, flamethrowers, satchel charges, jury-rigged landmines, and specially designed magnetic hollow charges. All of these had to be used within a few meters of the target, which was difficult and dangerous.
The U.S. Army introduced the bazooka, the first rocket-propelled grenade launcher. Despite early problems, it was a success and was copied by other countries.
However, the bazooka had its drawbacks. Large and easily damaged, it required a well-trained two-man crew. Germany developed a one-man alternative, the Panzerfaust, having single-shot launchers that were cheap and required no special training. As a result, they were regularly issued to Volkssturm home-guard regiments. They were efficient against tanks during the last days of World War II.
The M72 LAW is a combination of the two World War II weapons. The basic principle is a miniaturized bazooka, while its light weight and cheapness rival the Panzerfaust.
Development and production
The solid rocket propulsion unit was developed in the newly formed Rohm and Haas research laboratory at Redstone Arsenal in 1959,E. T. DeRieux et al. Final Report – Development of LAW Propulsion Unit, R&H RARD, Technical Report No. S-12, December 1959 and the full system was designed by Paul V. Choate, Charles B. Weeks, Frank A. Spinale, et al. at the Hesse-Eastern Division of Norris Thermador. American production of the weapon began by Hesse-Eastern in 1963, and was terminated by 1983; currently it is produced by Nammo Raufoss AS in Norway and their subsidiary, Nammo Defense Systems (formerly Nammo Talley Inc.) in Arizona.[http://www.talleyds.com/Talley%20Nammo%20Test%20page/products/m72_products.htm "M72 products"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150321040042/http://www.talleyds.com/Talley%20Nammo%20Test%20page/products/m72_products.htm |date=2015-03-21}}. Nammo Talley, Inc. Retrieved September 25, 2014.
Description
File:Licht anti-tankwapen (LAW M72) voor eenmalig gebruik (2086-067-006).jpg
The weapon consists of a rocket within a launcher consisting of two tubes, one inside the other. While closed, the outer assembly serves as a watertight container for the rocket and the percussion-cap firing mechanism that activates the rocket. The outer tube contains the trigger, the arming handle, front and rear sights, and the rear cover. The inner tube contains the channel assembly, which houses the firing pin assembly, including the detent lever. When extended, the inner tube telescopes outward toward the rear, guided by the channel assembly, which rides in an alignment slot in the outer tube's trigger housing assembly. This causes the detent lever to move under the trigger assembly in the outer tube, both locking the inner tube in the extended position and cocking the weapon. Once armed, the weapon is no longer watertight, even if the launcher is collapsed into its original configuration. It is a line of sight weapon with a range around {{convert|200|m|ft|sp=us}}.
File:Law ftbenning 1960 04.jpg
When fired, the striker in the rear tube impacts a primer, which ignites a small amount of powder that "flashes" down a tube to the rear of the rocket and ignites the propellant in the rocket motor. The rocket motor burns completely before leaving the mouth of the launcher, producing a backblast of gases around {{convert|1400|°F|°C|abbr=on}}. The rocket propels the {{cvt|66|mm|in}} warhead forward without significant recoil. As the warhead emerges from the launcher, six fins spring out from the base of the rocket tube, stabilizing the warhead's flight. The early LAW warhead, developed from the M31 HEAT rifle grenade warhead, uses a simple piezoelectric fuze system. On impact with the target, the front of the nose section is crushed, causing a microsecond electric current to be generated, which detonates a booster charge located in the base of the warhead, which sets off the main warhead charge. The force of the main charge forces the copper liner into a directional particle jet that, in relation to the size of the warhead, is capable of a massive penetration.
A unique mechanical set-back safety on the base of the detonator grounds the circuit until the missile has accelerated out of the tube. The acceleration causes the three disks in the safety mechanism to rotate 90° in succession, ungrounding the circuit; the circuit from the nose to the base of the detonator is then completed when the piezoelectric crystal is crushed on impact.
The weapon can be fired from inside buildings as long as the structures are at least {{cvt|12|by|15|ft|m|order=flip}} in size, which is about {{convert|50|m3|ft3|sp=us}} in volume, and have sufficient ventilation.{{cite web |title=SQUAD WEAPONS B2E2657 Student Handout |url=https://www.trngcmd.marines.mil/Portals/207/Docs/TBS/B2E2657%20Squad%20Weapons.pdf |website=trngcmd.marines.mil |publisher=UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS}}{{cite web |title=FM 3–23.25 SHOULDER-LAUNCHED MUNITIONS |url=https://www.bits.de/NRANEU/others/amd-us-archive/fm3-23.25%2806%29.pdf |website=bits.de |publisher=DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY}} The Department of the Army previously rated the weapon as safe to fire from enclosure, but this rating was removed in 2010 after the introduction of the safer AT4 CS.{{cite web |title=TM 3–23.25(FM 3–23.25) Shoulder-Launched Munitions |url=https://armypubs.army.mil/epubs/DR_pubs/DR_a/pdf/web/tm3_23x25.pdf |website=armypubs.army.mil |publisher=Department of the Army}} However, some modern variants of the LAW are specifically designed with fire-from-enclosure (FFE) capability.{{cite web |last1=Gonzales |first1=Matt |title=MARINE CORPS RELEASES SOLICITATION FOR ROCKET SYSTEM |url=https://www.marcorsyscom.marines.mil/News/News-Article-Display/Article/2297371/marine-corps-releases-solicitation-for-rocket-system/ |website=marcorsyscom.marines.mil |publisher=MCSC Office of Public Affairs and Communication}}
In late 2021, Nammo unveiled the concept of a multi-rotor unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) equipped with a LAW. The tube is mounted facing downward, enabling the drone operator to fire on tanks and armored vehicles from a top attack position while remaining {{cvt|3|to|4|km|mi}} away.{{cite web |last1=Dalløkken |first1=Per Erlien |title=Luftbåren M72: Nammo monterer raketter på drone – kan være et billig og effektivt panservernvåpen |url=https://www.tu.no/artikler/luftbaren-m72-nammo-monterer-raketter-pa-drone-kan-vaere-et-billig-og-effektivt-panservernvapen/514386 |website=Tu.no |publisher=Teknisk Ukeblad |language=no |date=29 October 2021}}
Ammunition
M72 LAWs were issued as prepackaged rounds of ammunition. Improvements to the launcher and differences in the ammunition were differentiated by a single designation. The original M72 warhead penetrated {{cvt|30|cm|in}} of armor.{{cite web |title=FM 7-7 |url=http://www.bits.de/NRANEU/others/amd-us-archive/FM7-7%2885%29.pdf |website=www.bits.de |access-date=10 November 2018 |date=March 1985 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180630081244/http://www.bits.de/NRANEU/others/amd-us-archive/FM7-7%2885%29.pdf |archive-date=30 June 2018 |url-status=live }}{{cite web |title=LIGHT ANTIARMOR WEAPONS |url=http://pdf.textfiles.com/manuals/MILITARY/united_states_army_fm_3-23x25%20-%2030_august_2001.pdf |publisher=DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY |access-date=10 November 2018 |date=30 August 2001 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130124063044/http://pdf.textfiles.com/manuals/MILITARY/united_states_army_fm_3-23x25%20-%2030_august_2001.pdf |archive-date=24 January 2013 |url-status=live }}
A training variant of the M72 LAW, designated M190, also exists. This weapon is reloadable and uses the {{cvt|35|mm|in}} M73 training rocket. A subcaliber training device that uses a special tracer cartridge also exists for the M72. A training variant used by the Finnish armed forces fires {{cvt|7.62|mm|in}} tracer rounds.{{Citation needed|date=November 2023}}
The US Army tested other 66 mm rockets based on the M54 rocket motor used for the M72. The M74 TPA (thickened pyrophoric agent) had an incendiary warhead filled with TEA (triethylaluminum); this was used in the M202A1 FLASH (flame assault shoulder weapon) four-tube launcher. The XM96 RCR (riot control rocket) had a CS gas-filled warhead for crowd control and was also intended for use with the M202, though the rocket never entered service.
Service history
=Australia=
The M72 rocket has been in Australian service since the Vietnam War.[http://cas.awm.gov.au/item/REL22751 REL22751 – M72 (L1A2F1) Rocket Launcher] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120520214245/http://cas.awm.gov.au/item/REL22751 |date=2012-05-20 }} – Australian War Memorial. Accessed December 2010.[http://www.diggerhistory.info/pages-conflicts-periods/vietnam/rar-vietnam.htm Weapons Used by Infantry Rifle Sections] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101130110907/http://www.diggerhistory.info/pages-conflicts-periods/vietnam/rar-vietnam.htm |date=2010-11-30 }} – diggerhistory.info. Accessed December 2010. Currently, the Australian Defence Force uses the M72A6 variant, known as the "light direct fire support weapon",{{cite web|url=http://www.defencejobs.gov.au/airforce/technology/equipment.aspx |title=Air Force technology: Equipment – Defence Jobs Australia |publisher=Defencejobs.gov.au |access-date=2013-01-01 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121129043741/http://www.defencejobs.gov.au/airforce/technology/equipment.aspx |archive-date=November 29, 2012}} as an anti-structure and secondary anti-armor weapon. The weapon is used by ordinary troops at the section (squad) level and complements the heavier {{cvt|84|mm|in}} Carl Gustav recoilless rifle and Javelin missile, which are generally used by specialized fire support and anti-armor troops.[http://www.defence.gov.au/dmo/news/ontarget/dec07/rw.cfm REMEMBER WHEN.... WE GOT ATGWS?] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080311112839/http://www.defence.gov.au/dmo/news/ontarget/dec07/rw.cfm |date=March 11, 2008}}
=Canada=
As of 21 February 2023, Canada has supplied 4,500 M72s to Ukraine for use in the Russo-Ukrainian War.{{cite web
|url=https://nationalpost.com/news/canada/heres-everything-canada-has-sent-to-ukraine-since-russia-invaded
|accessdate=21 February 2023
|title=Here's everything Canada has sent to Ukraine since Russia invaded
|last1=Tristin Hopper
|first1=Tristin Hopper
|date=21 February 2023
|website=nationalpost.com
|publisher=National Post
}} These are of the M72A5-C1 designation.{{cite web |url=https://www.canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/campaigns/canadian-military-support-to-ukraine.html |title=Canadian donations and military support to Ukraine |publisher=Canadian National Defence |date=2023-06-24}}
=Finland=
The M72 LAW is used in the Finnish Army (some 70,000 pieces), where it is known under the designations 66 KES 75 (M72A2, no longer in service) and 66 KES 88 (M72A5). In accordance with the weapon's known limitations, a pair of "tank-buster" troops crawl to a firing position around {{convert|50|to|150|m|ft|sp=us}} away from the target, bringing with them four to six LAWs, which are then used in rapid succession until the target is destroyed or incapacitated. Due to its low penetration capability, it is used mostly against lightly armored targets. The M72 is the most common anti-tank weapon in the Finnish Army.{{Citation needed|date=April 2011}} Finland has recently upgraded its stocks to the M72 EC LAW Mk.I version. It is designated 66 KES 12{{Cite web|url=https://maavoimat.fi/en/-/enhanced-capability-for-anti-tank-measures-by-new-light-anti-tank-weapon|title = Enhanced capability for anti-tank measures by new light anti-tank weapon -}} Claimed penetration for the M72 EC LAW is {{cvt|450|mm|in}} of rolled homogeneous armor steel plate, nearly twice that of the M72A2.[https://www.nammo.com/globalassets/pdfs/ammobook/nammo_produktkatalog_2014_web.pdf "Nammo Ammunition Handbook: Edition 2"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160315163603/https://www.nammo.com/globalassets/pdfs/ammobook/nammo_produktkatalog_2014_web.pdf |date=2016-03-15 }}, Nordic Ammunition Company (Nammo), page 131, 2014. It also fields the bunker-buster version that contains {{cvt|440|g|lb}} of DPX-6 explosive, named M72 ASM RC, and locally designated 66 KES 12 RAK. The oldest version of the 66 KES 75 is now retired.{{cite web |url=http://rapporter.ffi.no/rapporter/2008/00334.pdf |title=Archived copy |access-date=2019-04-03 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180306023700/http://rapporter.ffi.no/rapporter/2008/00334.pdf |archive-date=2018-03-06 |url-status=dead }}
= Israel =
First arriving in Israel during The Yom Kippur War as part of Operation Nickel Grass,{{Cite web |last=Edomi |first=Omri |date=2023-07-05 |title=Here comes the train (airlift) |url=https://www.idf.il/%D7%90%D7%AA%D7%A8%D7%99-%D7%99%D7%97%D7%99%D7%93%D7%95%D7%AA/%D7%94%D7%9E%D7%97%D7%9C%D7%A7%D7%94-%D7%9C%D7%94%D7%99%D7%A1%D7%98%D7%95%D7%A8%D7%99%D7%94/%D7%99%D7%A1%D7%95%D7%93%D7%95%D7%AA/%D7%99%D7%A1%D7%95%D7%93%D7%95%D7%AA-5-1/%D7%A9%D7%99%D7%A7%D7%95%D7%9C%D7%99%D7%9D-%D7%95%D7%90%D7%99%D7%9C%D7%95%D7%A6%D7%99%D7%9D-%D7%A8%D7%9B%D7%91%D7%AA-%D7%90%D7%95%D7%95%D7%99%D7%A8%D7%99%D7%AA-%D7%90%D7%9E%D7%A8%D7%99%D7%A7%D7%90%D7%99%D7%AA/ |access-date=2024-03-07 |website=www.idf.il}} the LAW is the primary light anti tank weapon of the Israeli infantry, and has been used extensively throughout the different wars and conflicts, including the current Gaza war.
=Norway=
In late February 2022, the Norwegian government announced that it intended to donate "up to 2,000" M72 LAW units from their reserve stocks to Ukraine, in response to the Russian invasion.{{cite web |url=https://www.regjeringen.no/en/aktuelt/norway-to-provide-weapons-to-ukraine/id2902587/ |title=Norway to provide weapons to Ukraine |author= |date=February 28, 2022 |website=www.regjeringen.no |publisher=Office of the Prime Minister |access-date=March 7, 2022}} On March 30, 2022, the Norwegian Defence Ministry said that 2,000 more units will be sent to Ukraine.{{Cite web |title=Norway Sends More Anti-Tank Weapons to Ukraine |url=https://www.usnews.com/news/world/articles/2022-03-30/norway-sends-more-anti-tank-weapons-to-ukraine |website=U.S. News}}
=Taiwan=
The Republic of China Army (Taiwan) uses the M72 as a secondary anti-armor weapon for infantry units. It is used primarily as a backup to the Javelin and BGM-71 TOW anti-tank weapons.{{Citation needed|date=April 2008}} The weapon was later reverse-engineered into the "Type 1 66 mm anti-armor rocket", which was introduced from M72 A2, but is more-popularly nicknamed as the "Type 66 rocket" due to its caliber. After several decades of application, the Type 66mm anti-armor rocket has evolved into Kestrel (67mm) model since 2008.
=Turkey=
The Turkish Army uses a locally built version by Makina ve Kimya Endustrisi Kurumu, called HAR-66 (Hafif Antitank Roketi, 'light antitank rocket'), which has the performance and characteristics of a mix of an M72A2 and an A3. Turkey also indigenously developed an anti-personnel warhead version of HAR-66 AP and called it "Eşek Arısı" ('wasp').{{cite web|url=http://www.mkek.gov.tr/english/foUrunDetaylari.aspx?iKodUrun=307&iKodUrunKategorisi=108 |title=MKEK Makina ve Kimya Endüstrisi Kurumu / Mechanical and Chemical Industry Corporation |publisher=Mkek.gov.tr |access-date=2013-01-01 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120314105518/http://www.mkek.gov.tr/english/foUrunDetaylari.aspx?iKodUrun=307&iKodUrunKategorisi=108 |archive-date=March 14, 2012}}
=United Kingdom=
File:Soldier Fires 66mm Rocket MOD 45150917.jpg
The British Army employed the NAMMO M72, designated as the "Rocket 66 mm HEAT L1A1," until it was phased out and replaced by the LAW 80 in the 1980s."Jane's Infantry Weapons 1995–1996", page 686 The M72 saw active use during the 1982 Falklands War, where it was primarily utilized to suppress Argentine defensive positions at close range.{{cite book |editor-last1=Badsey |editor-first1=Stephen |editor-last2=Whittick |editor-first2=Robin Paul |date=2004 |title=The Falklands Conflict Twenty Years on: Lessons for the Future |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=9AWE9_F7p7cC&pg=PA289 |location=London |publisher=Routledge |page=289 |isbn=978-0415350303}} Additionally, it was deployed against an assault amphibious vehicle during the initial invasion and played a role in damaging the Argentine warship {{ship|ARA|Guerrico}} during the invasion of South Georgia.
Under the 2012 Urgent Operational Requirement program, the M72 was reintroduced into British service, with the M72A9 variant being designated as the Light Anti-Structure Munition (LASM).{{cite web|url=http://www.army.mod.uk/equipment/support-weapons/1465.aspx |title=LASM – British Army Website |publisher=Army.mod.uk |access-date=2013-01-01 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121123144518/http://www.army.mod.uk/equipment/support-weapons/1465.aspx |archive-date=November 23, 2012}}{{cite web|url=http://www.strategypage.com/dls/articles/200791220521.asp |title=Oh, the Horror, the Horror |access-date=2008-03-26 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080326210739/http://www.strategypage.com/dls/articles/200791220521.asp |archive-date=2008-03-26 }}{{cite web|url=http://www.inetres.com/gp/military/infantry/antiarmor/M72.html|title=M72 Light Anti-tank (sic) Weapon System (LAW)|publisher=Gary's U.S. Infantry Weapons Reference Guide|access-date=2004-12-23|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20041221035344/http://www.inetres.com/gp/military/infantry/antiarmor/M72.html|archive-date=2004-12-21|url-status=dead}}
=United States=
{{multiple image
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| caption1 = M72 as used in Vietnam, 1968
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| caption2 = Modern M72A7 in use in Afghanistan with US Marines, 2009
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During the Vietnam and post-Vietnam periods, all issued LAWs were recalled after instances of the warhead exploding in flight, sometimes injuring the operator. After safety improvements, part of the training and firing drills included the requirement to ensure that the words "w/coupler" were included in the text description stenciled on the launcher, which indicated that the launcher had the required safety modifications.{{Citation needed|date=January 2009}}Some reports state these instances were caused by misfires due to water in the flash tube and by unproven rumors of sabotage at the manufacturing plant during the Vietnam War.{{citation needed|date=October 2021}}
With the failure of the M72's intended replacement, the Viper, in late 1982 Congress ordered the US Army to test off-the-shelf light antitank weapons and report back by the end of 1983. In partnership with Raufoss AS, Talley Defense offered the M72E4, which provided increased range, velocity, and better sights; this was tested by the U.S. Army Materiel Systems Analysis Activity (AMSAA) along with other light anti-armor weapons in 1985. Despite the velocity and range improvements of the M72E4, the AT4 still had a higher hit probability due to its higher velocity and range. Therefore, the AT4 was chosen to replace the M72, instead of the improved M72E4 LAW.D. Kyle, Armed Forces Journal International, November 1983, "Viper Dead, Army Picks AT-4 Antitank Missile", page 21{{Cite web |last=United States General Accounting Office |date=September 1987 |title=ANTITANK WEAPONS: Current and Future Capabilities |url=https://www.gao.gov/assets/pemd-87-22.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231216023401/https://www.gao.gov/assets/pemd-87-22.pdf |archive-date=16 December 2023 |access-date=9 February 2025 |website=GAO}}
Although generally considered a Vietnam War–era weapon that had been superseded by the more powerful AT4, the M72 LAW remained in service with the U.S. military for some time due to existing stockpiles and the U.S. Air Force continuing to purchase M72A3 LAWs until at least 2009.{{Cite web |last=U.S. Air Force |date=February 2007 |title=PROCUREMENT PROGRAM FISCAL YEAR (FY) 2008/2009 BUDGET ESTIMATES PROCUREMENT OF AMMUNITION |url=https://www.saffm.hq.af.mil/Portals/84/documents/FY08/AFD-070628-071.pdf?ver=2016-08-22-132141-980 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171009153124/https://www.saffm.hq.af.mil/Portals/84/documents/FY08/AFD-070628-071.pdf?ver=2016-08-22-132141-980 |archive-date=9 October 2017}} The LAW also found new popularity in operations with the U.S. Army, the U.S. Marine Corps, and Canadian Army in Iraq and Afghanistan. The lower cost and lighter weight of the LAW, combined with a scarcity of modern heavy armored targets and the need for an individual assault weapon versus an individual anti-armor weapon, made it ideal for the type of urban combat seen in Iraq and mountain warfare seen in Afghanistan. In addition, a soldier can carry two LAWs on a mission as opposed to a single AT4.{{cite web |url=http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/marines-fought-the-law-and-the-law-won-0151 |title=Marines Fought the LAW, and the LAW Won |publisher=Defenseindustrydaily.com |date=2005-03-10 |access-date=2013-01-01 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130125205134/http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/marines-fought-the-law-and-the-law-won-0151/ |archive-date=2013-01-25 |url-status=live }}
File:USMC-050203-M-2607O-003.jpg]]
In February 2005, The Naval Surface Warfare Center, Dahlgren Division (NSWCDD) issued a solicitation to procure 2,558 M72A7 66mm HE LAW w/Graze Fuze Function and NVD Mount with the award date estimated as mid-May 2005.{{Cite web |date=2007-07-17 |title=US Military Begins to Experience the LAW Again (defense procurement, military acquisition, defence purchasing) |url=https://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/us-military-begins-to-experience-the-law-again-01241/ |access-date=2025-02-10 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070717203530/https://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/us-military-begins-to-experience-the-law-again-01241/ |archive-date=17 July 2007 }} U.S. Marine Corps officials also identified the M72A7 LAW as an urgent requirement in support of the global war on terrorism, with the USMC initially purchasing 1,136 M72A7s in 2005.{{Cite web |last=DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY |date=February 2005 |title=JUSTIFICATION OF ESTIMATES FEBRUARY 2005 |url=https://www.globalsecurity.org/military/library/budget/fy2006/navy/PANMC_FY06PB.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210826071159/https://www.globalsecurity.org/military/library/budget/fy2006/navy/PANMC_FY06PB.pdf |archive-date=26 August 2021}}{{Cite web |title=S. Rept. 109-69 - NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2006 |url=https://www.congress.gov/congressional-report/109th-congress/senate-report/69/1 |access-date=2025-02-10 |website=www.congress.gov}} The U.S. Marine Corps increased M72A7 LAW purchases after 2005, with the service purchasing about 23,000 over a three-year period from 2007 to 2009.{{Cite web |last=DACIS |date=February 2008 |title=Procurement of Ammunition, Navy and Marine Corps/2/Ammunition |url=https://www.dacis.com/budget/budget_pdf/FY09/PROC/N/1471.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250215171350/https://www.dacis.com/budget/budget_pdf/FY09/PROC/N/1471.pdf |archive-date=15 February 2025}} Later in 2010, the U.S. Army also began using the M72A7 LAW in Afghanistan because it was found to be a useful small and lightweight rocket system for engaging short- and medium-range targets. Foot patrols particularly benefited from it due to Afghanistan's difficult terrain and high elevations.[https://www.army.mil/article/49954/Modernizing_and_equipping_the_force__Part_1_/ Modernizing and equipping the force (Part 1)] – Army.mil, 30 December 2010 The U.S. Marine Corps was still purchasing M72A7 LAW rockets as of March 2023.{{Cite web |last=Department of the Navy |date=March 2023 |title=Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 Budget Estimates |url=https://www.secnav.navy.mil/fmc/fmb/Documents/24pres/PANMC_Book.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250129063150/https://www.secnav.navy.mil/fmc/fmb/Documents/24pres/PANMC_Book.pdf |archive-date=29 January 2025 |access-date=9 February 2025 |website=www.secnav.navy.mil}}
The M72A7 LAW is an improved version of its predecessors, featuring an enhanced rocket motor that increases velocity to {{Convert|200|m/s|ft/s|abbr=on}} for greater accuracy beyond 200 meters (660 feet), a Picatinny rail for mounting laser pointers and night sights, and the warhead contains a copper explosively formed penetrator (EFP), instead of a conical shaped charge. While the EFP has reduced penetration compared to the previous LAWs with a conical shaped charge, it creates a larger diameter hole, resulting in greater spalling inside armored vehicles and increased fragmentation behind urban walls, making it more destructive overall. Safety was also improved with an insensitive munition warhead to reduce the risk of accidental detonation.{{Cite web |last=U.S. Army |date=September 2010 |title=Shoulder-Launched Munitions |url=https://armypubs.army.mil/epubs/DR_pubs/DR_a/pdf/web/tm3_23x25.pdf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190126175339/https://armypubs.army.mil/epubs/DR_pubs/DR_a/pdf/web/tm3_23x25.pdf |archive-date=26 January 2019 }}
File:M72A7 Light Antitank Weapon United States Marine Corps Iraq 2005.jpg|Marine firing an M72A7 in Iraq, 2005
File:M72A7.jpg|The rocket of the M72A7 seen in flight
File:M72A7 LAW firing.webm|M72A7 LAW firing
In May of 2024, Marine Corps Systems Command announced the acquisition of the M72 Light Assault Weapon (LAW) Fire from Enclosure (FFE) Munition. It features an improved launcher with an enhanced in-line trigger mechanism and an upgraded sling design for better handling. The M72 FFE has two configurations: the M72A8 anti-armor and the M72A10 multi-purpose, anti-structure munition. The M72A8 contains a high-explosive anti-armor warhead with improved armor penetration, while the M72A10 provides Marines with the added capability of an anti-structure round designed to eliminate hardened structures such as buildings. The M72A10 features an advanced warhead design with a multipurpose explosive and a self-discriminating fuse that automatically operates in either a fast- or delay-mode depending on the target’s construction, allowing Marines to effectively engage structures, bunkers, and enemy personnel. The FFE variants are no longer classified as rocket launchers, as they lack a rocket motor. Instead, they function as recoilless launchers, using a propellant charge to propel a 66mm fin-stabilized ballistic projectile toward the target. A liquid counter-mass behind the propellant mitigates backblast, allowing the weapon to be safely fired from enclosed spaces.{{Cite web |title=Innovative: Nammo's New M72 FFE—An Achievement in Perfect Countermass Balance – Small Arms Defense Journal |url=https://sadefensejournal.com/innovative-nammos-new-m72-ffe-an-achievement-in-perfect-countermass-balance/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250115004928/https://sadefensejournal.com/innovative-nammos-new-m72-ffe-an-achievement-in-perfect-countermass-balance/ |archive-date=15 January 2025 |access-date=10 February 2025 |language=en-US}} The M72 FFE replaces the M72A7 LAW, allowing Marines to fire multiple shots daily from enclosed spaces without risk of brain injury. It also produces less muzzle flash than an M9 pistol, reducing its visual and thermal signature. With these improvements, both M72 FFE variants significantly enhance infantry effectiveness against armored vehicles and fortified structures, in urban environments as well as complex terrain. Fielding is expected to begin in 2024.{{Cite web |last=Marine Corps Systems Command Public Affairs |date=21 May 2024 |title=Marine Corps set to receive new Light Assault Weapon System |url=https://www.doncio.navy.mil/CHIPS/ArticleDetails.aspx?id=16789 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250210023229/https://www.doncio.navy.mil/CHIPS/ArticleDetails.aspx?id=16789 |archive-date=10 February 2025 |access-date=10 February 2025 |website=www.doncio.navy.mil}}{{Cite web |title=Marine Corps releases solicitation for rocket system |url=https://www.marines.mil/News/News-Display/Article/2299100/marine-corps-releases-solicitation-for-rocket-system/ |access-date=2025-02-10 |website=United States Marine Corps Flagship |language=en-US}}
=Vietnam=
Several M72A1 and M72A2 LAWs captured during the Vietnam War have been put into service with the chemical force of the Vietnam People's Army. The launchers are upgraded to be able to fire multiple times and are armed with M74 incendiary rounds.{{citation needed|date=February 2022}}
Variants
class="wikitable" |
Designation
! Description ! US designation ! International designation |
---|
M72
|{{cvt|66|mm|in}} Talley single-shot disposable rocket launcher; pre-loaded with HEAT rocket |M72 | |
M72A1
|Improved rocket motor |M72A1 |L1A1 (UK) |
M72A2
|Improved rocket motor, higher penetration |M72A2 |66 KES 75 (Finland), L1A3 (UK) |
M72A3
|M72A2 variant; safety upgrades |M72A3 | |
M72A4
|Rocket optimized for high penetration; uses improved launcher assembly |M72A4 | |
M72A5
|M72A3 variant; uses improved launcher assembly |M72A5 |66 KES 88 (Finland) |
M72A6
|Warhead modified for lower penetration but increased blast effect; uses improved launcher assembly |M72A6 | |
M72A7
|M72A6 variant, insensitive-explosive (PBXN-9) version for US Navy |M72A7 | |
M72A7 graze{{cite web |url=https://navytribe.files.wordpress.com/2015/11/navsea-sw010-ad-gtp-010.pdf |title=SW010-AD-GTP-010 |date=25 March 2009 |publisher=NAVSEA |access-date=2019-05-23 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190523165133/https://navytribe.files.wordpress.com/2015/11/navsea-sw010-ad-gtp-010.pdf |archive-date=2019-05-23 |url-status=live }}
|A7 variant with super-sensitive graze fuze, restricted from training use (combat-only) |M72A7 with graze | |
M72A8
|Anti-armor warhead with fire-from-enclosure (FFE) propulsion (formerly M72E8) |M72A8 | |
M72A9
|Blast-optimized HE warhead, DPX-6 explosive | |Light anti-structure missile (LASM) [UK] |
M72A10
|Anti-structure warhead with FFE propulsion (formerly M72E10) |M72A10 | |
M72E11{{cite web |url=https://www.nammo.com/globalassets/pdfs/bulletin/nammo-bulletin-2018_screen.pdf |title=bulletIN |date=2018 |publisher=Nammo |access-date=2019-05-23 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180606130232/https://www.nammo.com/globalassets/pdfs/bulletin/nammo-bulletin-2018_screen.pdf |archive-date=2018-06-06 |url-status=dead }}
|Airburst M72 | | |
M72 EC
|Enhanced capacity, increased anti-armor performance, 315 grams PBXW-11 explosive | |66 KES 12 (Finland) |
M72 ASM RC
|Reduced-caliber {{cvt|45|mm|in}} anti-structure rocket, {{cvt|0.4|kg|lb}} DPX-6 explosive | |66 KES 12 RAK (Finland) |
M247{{cite web |url=http://bulletpicker.com/pdf/TM%2043-0001-30,%20Rockets,%20Rocket%20Systems,%20Rocket%20Fuzes,%20Rocket%20Motors.pdf |title=TM 43-0001-30 |date=Dec 1981 |publisher=Department of the Army |via=bulletpicker.com |access-date=2019-05-23 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180712193534/http://bulletpicker.com/pdf/TM%2043-0001-30,%20Rockets,%20Rocket%20Systems,%20Rocket%20Fuzes,%20Rocket%20Motors.pdf |archive-date=2018-07-12 |url-status=dead }}
|{{cvt|2.75|in|mm|order=flip}} rocket warhead using M72A2 warhead components, {{cvt|2.0|lb|g|order=flip}} composition B explosive |M247 | |
HAR-66
|Turkish variant, mix of A2 and A3 features | |HAR-66 (Turkey) |
M72AS
|{{cvt|21|mm|in}} reusable trainer |M72AS | |
M190
|{{cvt|35|mm|in}} training variant, fires M73 practice rocket |M190 | |
= Armor penetration and velocity =
File:M72 and SMAW projectiles.jpg/M141 HEDM rocket, SMAW-NE rocket, and SMAW rocket encasement. (above the M72E8 projectile is the 21mm training projectile for the M72AS)]]
Specifications (M72A2 and M72A3)
=Launcher=
- Length:
- Extended: less than {{convert|1|m|in|abbr=on}}
- Closed: {{convert|0.67|m|in|abbr=on}}
- Weight:
- Complete M72A2: {{convert|2.3|kg|lb|abbr=on}}
- Complete M72A3: {{convert|2.5|kg|lb|abbr=on}}
- Firing mechanism: percussion.
- Front sight: reticle graduated in 25 m range increments
- Rear sight: peep sight adjusts automatically to temperature change
=Rocket=
- Caliber: {{convert|66|mm|in|abbr=on}}
- Length: {{convert|508|mm|in|abbr=on}}
- Weight: {{convert|1.8|kg|lb|abbr=on}}
- Muzzle velocity: {{cvt|145|m/s|ft/s}}
- Minimum range (combat): {{convert|10|m|ft|abbr=on}}
- Minimum arming range: {{convert|10|m|ft|abbr=on}}
- Maximum range: {{convert|1,000|m|ft|abbr=on}}
- Penetration: {{convert|300|mm|in|abbr=on}}{{cite web |title=FM 7-7: The Mechanized Infantry Platoon and Squad (APC) |url=https://www.bits.de/NRANEU/others/amd-us-archive/FM7-7%2885%29.pdf |publisher=Headquarters, Department of the Army |pages=B-5-B-6 |date=15 March 1985 |via=Berlin Information-center for Transatlantic Security |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231011020433/http://www.bits.de/NRANEU/others/amd-us-archive/FM7-7(85).pdf |archive-date= Oct 11, 2023 }}
=Maximum effective ranges=
- Stationary target: {{convert|200|m|yd|abbr=on}}
- Moving target: {{convert|165|m|yd|abbr=on}}
- Beyond these ranges there is less than a 50% chance of hitting the target.
Operators
=Current operators=
- {{flag|Argentina}}: M72A3 variant{{Cite web |date=2016-11-24 |title=Weapons: Argentina |website=World Infantry |url=https://sites.google.com/site/worldinventory/wiw_sa_argentina |access-date=2023-03-01 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161124203421/https://sites.google.com/site/worldinventory/wiw_sa_argentina |archive-date=2016-11-24 }}
- {{flag|Australia}}: M72A6 variantJones, Richard D. Jane's Infantry Weapons 2009/2010. Jane's Information Group; 35 edition (January 27, 2009). {{ISBN|978-0-7106-2869-5}}.
- {{flag|Austria}}
- {{flag|Belgium}}
- {{flag|Brazil}}: M72A2 variant used by navy{{Cite web |date=2003-07-16 |title=Tráfico de armas |url=https://istoe.com.br/12662_TRAFICO+DE+ARMAS/ |access-date=2022-11-18 |website=ISTOÉ Independente |language=pt-br}}
- {{flag|Canada}} M72A5 variant, labeled as M72A5-C1
- {{Col}}{{Cite web |date=2012-04-09 |title=Sistemas Antitanque del Ejercito Nacional de Colombia |url=https://americamilitar.com/ejercito-nacional/91-sistemas-antitanque-del-ejercito-nacional-de-colombia.html |access-date=2023-11-20 |website=América Militar: información sobre defensa, seguridad y geopolítica |language=es-ES}} M72A3 variant
- {{flag|Chile}}: M72A3 variant. Used by the Chilean Army and the Chilean Marine Corps. New variant used by the latter force reported in 2018.{{cite web |url=https://www.infodefensa.com/texto-diario/mostrar/3057489/ejercito-chile-exhibe-cougar-ecureuil-airbus-santiago |title=The Chilean Army exhibits its Airbus Cougar and Ecureuil in Santiago |last=García |first=Nicolás |date=20 September 2018 |website=Infodefensa.com |access-date=15 December 2022}}
- {{CYP}}
- {{flag|Denmark}}: M72A7 variant, since 2018 M72 ECArchived at [https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211205/OqCrRgw3VI8 Ghostarchive]{{cbignore}} and the [https://web.archive.org/web/20200418120449/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OqCrRgw3VI8&gl=US&hl=en Wayback Machine]{{cbignore}}: {{cite web| url = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OqCrRgw3VI8&feature=youtu.be| title = M/72: Test af dysekanon | website=YouTube| date = 31 March 2020 }}{{cbignore}}{{cite web|url=https://www.forsvaret.dk/da/materiel2/panservarnsvaaben-m72/|title=Panserværnsvåben M72 ECLAW|publisher=The Danish Armed Forces|language=da|trans-title=Anti-armor weapon M72 ECLAW|accessdate=2 March 2022}}
- {{EGY}}{{Cite web |last=Sof |first=Eric |date=2023-04-02 |title=M72 LAW: A Lightweight, Single-Shot Anti-Tank Weapon |url=https://special-ops.org/m72-law/ |access-date=2023-11-15 |website=Spec Ops Magazine |language=en-US}}
- {{flag|El Salvador}}{{cite journal|journal=Military Technology World Defence Almanac|title=El Salvador|year=2005 |issn=0722-3226|page=60}}
- {{flag|Israel}}{{cite web|url=http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/israel-law-on-order-05069/|title=Israel: LAW on Order|access-date=29 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170830003540/http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/israel-law-on-order-05069/|archive-date=30 August 2017|url-status=live}}{{cite web |url=http://www.idf.il/1283-17900-EN/Dover.aspx |title=IDF – Israel Defense Forces : Special weaponry of the Nahal Brigade |access-date=2012-12-19 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121231214339/http://www.idf.il/1283-17900-en/Dover.aspx |archive-date=2012-12-31 |url-status=live }}
- {{flag|Italy}}: M72A5 variant since 2007
- {{flag|Japan}}: Used by the Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force.{{Cite web |title=M72 LAW (Light Anti-armor Weapon) Disposable Anti-Tank (AT) Rocket Launcher Specifications and Pictures |url=https://www.militaryfactory.com/smallarms/detail.php?smallarms_id=72 |access-date=2024-03-29 |website=www.militaryfactory.com}}
- {{flag|Malaysia}}: In service since 2015.{{cite web|url=http://www.malaysiandefence.com/army-getting-m72-law/|title=Army Getting M72 LAW – Malaysian Defence|language=en-US|access-date=2019-11-08}} 800 additional units ordered in 2024.{{cite web|url=https://www.malaysiandefence.com/more-laws-for-paras/|title=More LAWs for Paras}}
- {{flag|Finland}}
- {{flag|Georgia}}{{cite web|url=http://geo-army.ge/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=9&Itemid=9&lang=en |title=Armament of the Georgian Army |publisher=Geo-army.ge |access-date=2013-01-01 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120309192408/http://geo-army.ge/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=9&Itemid=9&lang=en |archive-date=2012-03-09 }}
- {{flag|Greece}}{{cite web|url=http://www.army.gr/html/GR_Army/sxoles/spz/oplismos.html#elafris|title=Γενικό Επιτελείο Στρατού|access-date=29 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160108050009/http://www.army.gr/html/GR_Army/sxoles/spz/oplismos.html#elafris|archive-date=8 January 2016|url-status=live}}
- {{flag|Iraq}}{{cite web|title=ISOF Arms & Equipment Part 4 – Grenade Launchers & Anti-Armour Weapons|url=http://armamentresearch.com/isof-arms-equipment-part-4-grenade-launchers-anti-armour-weapons/|first=Miles|last=Vining|date=June 19, 2018|website=armamentresearch.com|access-date=October 1, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180728192622/http://armamentresearch.com/isof-arms-equipment-part-4-grenade-launchers-anti-armour-weapons/|archive-date=July 28, 2018|url-status=live}}
- {{flag|Kosovo}}:{{citation needed|date=July 2024}}
- {{Flag|Kyrgyzstan}}:{{Cite book |url=https://www.worldcat.org/oclc/769660119 |title=Jane's infantry weapons, 2009-2010 2009/2010 |date=2009 |publisher=Jane's Information Group |others=Richard, August 14- Jones, Leland S. Ness |isbn=978-0-7106-2869-5 |edition=35th |location=Coulsdon |oclc=769660119}}{{Cite web |last1=President |last2=Parliament |last3=Cabinet |last4=Politics |last5=Economy |last6=Society |last7=Analytics |last8=Regions |last9=Emergencies |title=Armed Forces of Kyrgyzstan receive military equipment |url=http://en.kabar.kg/news/armed-forces-of-kyrgyzstan-receive-military-equipment/ |access-date=2022-08-08 |website=Информационное Агентство Кабар |language=en}} The weapon was shown during new military equipment presentation recently which were sent with Turkey's official representative to hand them Kyrgyz officials.
- {{flag|Luxembourg}}
- {{Flag|Lithuania}}: Lithuanian National Defence Volunteer Forces{{cite web|title=Jungtinės Amerikos Valstijos Lietuvos kariuomenei perduoda prieštankinių granatsvaidžių M72LAW {{!}} Lietuvos kariuomenė|url=https://kariuomene.lt/naujienos/jungtines-amerikos-valstijos-lietuvos-kariuomenei-perduoda-priestankiniu-granatsvaidziu-m72law/23892|access-date=2021-04-12|website=Jungtinės Amerikos Valstijos Lietuvos kariuomenei perduoda prieštankinių granatsvaidžių M72LAW {{!}} Lietuvos kariuomenė|language=lt}}
- {{MEX}}: First seen in September 2018{{cite web |last1=de Cherisey |first1=Erwan |title=Mexican military shows off new equipment |url=https://www.janes.com/article/83296/mexican-military-shows-off-new-equipment |website=IHS Jane's 360 |access-date=25 September 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180924191310/https://www.janes.com/article/83296/mexican-military-shows-off-new-equipment |archive-date=24 September 2018 |location=Paris |date=24 September 2018 |url-status=live}}
- {{flag|Morocco}}
- {{flag|Netherlands}}
- {{flag|New Zealand}}
- {{flag|Norway}}
- {{flag|Philippines}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.philippinerevolution.net/cgi-bin/ab/text.pl?issue=200001-02;lang=eng;article=04|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071107214120/http://www.philippinerevolution.net/cgi-bin/ab/text.pl?issue=200001-02%3Blang%3Deng%3Barticle%3D04|url-status=dead|title=13 Victorious tactical offensives launched in Southern Tagalog!|archive-date=November 7, 2007|website=www.philippinerevolution.net}}
- {{flag|Poland}}: On July 7, 2022, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense Mariusz Błaszczak announced the delivery of several thousand M72 EC MK1s.{{Cite web|url=https://defence24.pl/polityka-obronna/polska-kupila-tysiace-granatnikow-jednorazowych|title=Polska kupiła tysiące granatników jednorazowych|website=defence24.pl|date=7 July 2022 }}
- {{flag|Portugal}}{{cite web|url=https://special-ops.org/m72-law/|title=M72 LAW: A Lightweight, Single-Shot Anti-Tank Weapon|author=Eric Sof|work=Sepc Ops Magazine|date=2 April 2023}}
- {{flag|Romania}}{{cite web|url=http://www.dpa.ro/rp/publicatii/buletine/bc2009_1.pdf |title=Buletinul Contractelor de Achiziții Publice, anul 5, Nr.1 |date=11 June 2009 |publisher=DPA (Armaments Department) |language=ro |access-date=17 April 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120302190847/http://www.dpa.ro/rp/publicatii/buletine/bc2009_1.pdf |archive-date=2 March 2012 }}
- {{flag|Somalia}}{{cite book|url=http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/publications/by-type/yearbook/small-arms-survey-2012.html|chapter-url=http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/fileadmin/docs/A-Yearbook/2012/eng/Small-Arms-Survey-2012-Chapter-10-EN.pdf|chapter=Surveying the Battlefield: Illicit Arms In Afghanistan, Iraq, and Somalia|title=Small Arms Survey 2012: Moving Targets|publisher=Cambridge University Press|year=2012|author=Small Arms Survey|author-link=Small Arms Survey|page=342|isbn=978-0-521-19714-4|access-date=2018-08-30|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180831002411/http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/publications/by-type/yearbook/small-arms-survey-2012.html|archive-date=2018-08-31|url-status=dead}}
- {{flag|South Korea}}
- {{flag|Spain}}: M72A3 variant.
- {{flag|Syria}}: Captured from rebel groups.{{Cite web|url=https://twitter.com/ejmalrai/status/566657046947590145?t=4O3RaYHUnOw3EVdciYp0_w&s=19|title=#SAA #Hezbollah #IRGC captured several M72 LAW (Light Anti-Armor Weapon) in reef #Daraa during attack #Syria.}}
- {{flagicon|Syrian opposition}} Free Syrian Army{{Cite news|url=http://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-syria-arms-rebels-idUKBRE86C0KB20120713?feedType=RSS&feedName=GCA-GoogleNewsUK|title=Insight – Syria rebels get light arms, heavy weapons elusive|newspaper=Reuters|access-date=29 August 2017|date=2012-07-13|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170825150959/http://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-syria-arms-rebels-idUKBRE86C0KB20120713?feedType=RSS&feedName=GCA-GoogleNewsUK|archive-date=25 August 2017|url-status=dead}}
- {{flag|Taiwan}}
- {{flag|Thailand}}
- {{flag|Turkey}}
- {{Flag|Ukraine}}: delivered to Ukraine by Canadian, Danish and Norwegian Armed Forces (and possibly several others{{cite web|url=https://www.overtdefense.com/2022/03/08/rundown-western-anti-tank-weapons-for-ukraine-overt-defense/|title=Rundown: Western Anti-Tank Weapons For Ukraine|publisher=OvertDefense|date=8 March 2022|accessdate=11 March 2022}}), as part of the military aid during the 2022 Russian Invasion.{{Cite news |date=3 March 2022 |title=Canada prepared to welcome an 'unlimited number' of Ukrainians fleeing war, minister says |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/canada-unlimited-number-ukrainians-1.6371288 |website=CBC News|accessdate=11 March 2022}}{{cite web|url=https://www.forsvaret.dk/da/nyheder/2022/danmark-donerer-2.700-skulderbarne-panservarnsvaben-til-ukraine/|title=Danmark donerer 2.700 skulderbårne panserværnsvåben til Ukraine|publisher=The Danish Armed Forces|language=da|trans-title=Denmark donates 2,700 light anti-armor weapons to Ukraine|date=27 February 2022|accessdate=2 March 2022}}{{cite web|url=https://www.forsvaret.no/aktuelt-og-presse/aktuelt/sender-militaerutstyr-og-vapen-til-ukraina|title=Norge sender militærutstyr og våpen til Ukraina|publisher=The Norwegian Armed Forces|language=no|trans-title=Norway sends military equipment og weapons to Ukraine|date=28 February 2022|accessdate=2 March 2022}}
- {{flag|United Kingdom}}: Used by the British Army from the 1970s to the early 1990s.{{cite web|url=http://www.asianmilitaryreview.com/upload/200712031855161.pdf |title=Light Anti-Armour Weapons: Anti-Everything? |author=Owen, William F. |year=2007 |publisher=Asian Military Review |access-date=2010-05-12 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110707174026/http://www.asianmilitaryreview.com/upload/200712031855161.pdf |archive-date=July 7, 2011 }} The M72A9 variant was reintroduced into service for the Afghanistan war.{{cite web|url=http://www.thinkdefence.co.uk/2009/03/same-difference-the-66-is-back/|title=Same Difference – The 66 is Back|work=Think Defence |date=2009-03-30|access-date=2011-08-14|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110517184026/http://www.thinkdefence.co.uk/2009/03/same-difference-the-66-is-back/|archive-date=2011-05-17|url-status=live}} due to its light weight, lower cost and greater portability.
- {{flag|United States}}
- {{flag|Yemen}}
- {{flag|Vietnam}}
=Former users=
- {{flagicon image|Bandeira da FNLA.svg}} FNLA{{cite web |url=http://www2.gwu.edu/~nsarchiv/coldwar/interviews/episode-17/tomkins1.html |title=David Thompkins Interview |publisher=GWU |date=14 February 1999 |access-date=17 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111201075305/http://www.gwu.edu/~nsarchiv/coldwar/interviews/episode-17/tomkins1.html |archive-date=1 December 2011 |url-status=live }}
- {{flag|Cambodia}}
- {{flag|China}}: launchers captured and used in Sino-Vietnamese War and Sino-Vietnamese conflicts, replaced by the PF-89, PF-98 and DZJ-08 anti-tank grenade launcher.{{cite web|title=浴火重生——对越自卫反击战对我国轻武器发展的影响|url= https://m.fx361.com/news/2014/0923/3130795.html |date=23 Sep 2014|access-date=5 Aug 2022}}
- {{flag|South Vietnam}}{{cite web|url=https://ospreypublishing.com/army-of-the-republic-of-vietnam-1955-75|title=Army of the Republic of Vietnam 1955–75|website=United States|access-date=29 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170830004910/https://ospreypublishing.com/army-of-the-republic-of-vietnam-1955-75|archive-date=30 August 2017|url-status=live}}
See also
=Similar weapons=
Notes
{{Reflist|group=note|liststyle=lower-roman}}
References
{{Reflist|colwidth=30em}}
External links
{{Commons and category|M72 LAW}}
{{External image
|topic=M72 Enhancements Early 1980s
|float=right
|image1=[https://i.imgur.com/sv9eRdh.jpg M72E4, M72E5, M72E6 – Talley brochure]
|image2=[https://i.imgur.com/dpXqHRC.jpg Pop-up "Rifle Sights" adopted from canceled Talley Viper brochure]
}}
- [https://fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/land/m72.htm FAS]
- [http://www.inetres.com/gp/military/infantry/antiarmor/M72.html Gary's U.S. Infantry Weapons Reference Guide]
- [http://modernfirearms.net/grenade/usa/m72-law-e.html Modern Firearms]
- [http://www.designation-systems.net/dusrm/app4/law.html Designation-Systems]
- [https://web.archive.org/web/20080828025920/http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/2005/03/marines-fought-the-law-and-the-law-won/index.php Article on the reintroduction of the LAW in Iraq by the USMC]
- [https://web.archive.org/web/20050319031346/http://www.army.forces.gc.ca/LF/English/2_0_43.asp?uSubSection=43&uSection=5 Canadian Military Page On the M72]
- [http://www.freepatentsonline.com/4689910.html Patent for sights of M72 patented by Paul V. Choate of Milton, MA.]
- [https://web.archive.org/web/20091015200830/http://patents.ic.gc.ca/cipo/cpd/en/patent/761211/summary.html Patented by Paul V. Choate of Milton, MA.]
- [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VsnBX6OVAxM&NR=1 1960s US Army M72 Training film]
- [https://web.archive.org/web/20220228200237/https://www.bits.de/NRANEU/others/amd-us-archive/fm3-23.25(06).pdf FM 3.23-25]
{{ModernUSInfWeaponsNav}}
{{USAF Weapons}}
{{USA missiles}}
Category:Anti-tank rockets of the United States
Category:Cold War weapons of the United States