OPL-40M

The OPL-40M (Vietnamese: Ốp Phóng Lựu 40 mm), alternatively known as the SPL-40, is a grenade launcher developed by the Z111 Factory 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),^[2] 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.^[3]

OPL-40M SPL-40
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	Z125 Factory
Designed	2010
Manufacturer	Z125 Factory
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

History

The OPL-40M was developed and produced by Z125 Factory of General Department of Defence Industry. It was first shown in the Indo Defence 2018 exhibit.^[4]

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),^[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] This grenade launcher can be mounted under the STV-380 using the STV-380’s picatinny rail and bayonet lug.

Users

• Vietnam: Used by Vietnamese infantry and special forces units.^[3]