OPL-40M

The OPL-40M (short for Ốp Phóng Lựu 40 mm, also known as SPL-40) is a grenade launcher developed by the Z111 Factory, a Vietnamese defense manufacturer based in Thanh Hóa, Vietnam. It is a domestically produced weapon intended to replace earlier imported grenade launchers such as the M79 (produced locally as the SPL40), and other foreign designs like the M203 and GP-25. The OPL-40M represents a step forward in Vietnam's effort to localize its defense industry.^[2]

OPL-40M
OPL-40M grenade launcher mounted under the STV-380
Type	Under-barrel grenade launcher
Place of origin	Vietnam
Service history
In service	2010–present
Used by	Vietnam People's Army
Production history
Designer	Z111 Factory[1]
Designed	2010
Manufacturer	Z111 Factory[1]
Produced	In production
Specifications
Mass	1.4 kg (unloaded)[1]
Length	370 mm
Barrel length	250 mm
Cartridge	40×46mm NATO
Action	Single-shot
Muzzle velocity	74 m/s
Effective firing range	375 m (effective)[1]
Feed system	Manual loading
Sights	Leaf sight and post front sight

Design and Development

The OPL-40M is chambered in standard 40×46mm NATO rounds, enabling compatibility with international ammunition standards. Its design draws inspiration from the M203 (USA), GL40 (Israel), and GP-25 (Russia), ^[2][3]integrating the advantages of these systems to meet the operational requirements of the Vietnamese military.

It is designed to be mounted under assault rifles, including Kalashnikov rifle and STV rifles—Vietnam’s new standard service rifles based on the Israeli Galil ACE platform.^[1] The OPL-40M uses a forward-sliding and tilting barrel mechanism, allowing for the loading of longer grenade rounds. This design is considered more advanced than the American M203 and comparable to the modern M320.^[3]

Thanks to its versatility and firepower, the OPL-40M is used by both regular infantry and special forces units, enhancing their combat effectiveness in modern warfare scenarios.^[2]

Role in modern warfare

As under-barrel grenade launchers become the norm worldwide, the development of the OPL-40M allows Vietnam to maintain self-sufficiency in weapons production and improve the operational capabilities of its infantry forces. The launcher is well-suited for eliminating enemy personnel in diverse combat environments, from urban to jungle warfare.^[2]

Users

•  Vietnam People's Ground Force