SSW 40 – A new boom stick for the Infantry

Rheinmetall presented the world's first semi-automatic, magazine-loaded, shoulder fired grenade launcher at ENFORCE TAC 2025. Both weight, dimensions and handling of the SSW40 are like modern assault rifles. 

Thanks to a recoil-reducing and self-regulating recoil system, the SSW40 (Squad Support Weapon 40) can fire all current 40mm Low Velocity (LV) ammunition types, as well as the new Rheinmetall 40mm Medium Velocity (MV) ammunition. The new MV ammunition has a significantly increased velocity and a flatter trajectory, allowing targets to be engaged more quickly and increasing the effective range of the system to 900m. 

Besides being used in a dismounted combat role, the SSW40 can also be integrated on vehicles, or mounted on a tripod.

The 40mm MV ammunition family combines Rheinmetall's experience in 40mm LV and High Velocity (HV) ammunition, including the following ammunition types: 

• HE Fragmentation (HEFRAG) 
• Anti-Tank (HEDP) 
• Door Breaching (HEBE) 
• Air Burst (HEAB) 
• Training (TPM, TPM-T) 
• Illumination / Nebel 
• Sound & Flash and Irritation Ammunition (Flashbang and CS)

Being both magazine-fed, as well as offering a single-shot break-open option, the SSW40 offers superior firepower in any terrain and combat scenario. This dual feed option allows the user to quickly adapt to sudden need for an illumination or anti-armor round and then switch back immediately to anti-personnel rounds. 

The rail interfaces on the SSW40 also allow the inclusion of laser light modules, fire control systems, as well as IR programmers for aerial explosive point ammunition. Combined with the broad spectrum of Rheinmetall's 40mm LV/MV ammunition portfolio, the user achieves unprecedented flexibility and effectiveness on the battlefield of the future. 

The first field trials were successfully carried out with professional end user organizations at the beginning of 2024. Series production is expected to start later this year once all feedback from the end user trials has been addressed.

Rheinmetall Infantry & Soldier Equipment website.