The single-use weapon will replace APILAS systems acquired in the 1980s, giving Army units a close-range option against main battle tanks. It will form part of a layered anti-armour capability that also includes mines, missiles, tanks and military drones.
“The new single-use anti-tank weapon is intended for destroying tanks at close range,” said Colonel Ari Mure, Inspector of the Infantry at Army Command Finland. “It will replace the APILAS system acquired in the 1980s as the troops’ heavy close-range anti-tank weapon.”
Finland made armour penetration and usability central to its selection. The warhead had to defeat explosive reactive armour and retain enough effect to damage the protected target.
The Defence Forces compared available systems and tested the candidate meeting its criteria against a target with the required armour protection. It then worked with the manufacturer to develop the warhead further.
The requirements drew on Finnish research and testing, as well as observations from Ukraine. The Defence Forces said those observations confirmed its earlier assessments of adversary armour.
The RGW 110 fires a non-homing munition, limiting its range, but the Defence Forces said Finland’s fragmented, forested terrain helps offset that constraint. It said the weapon could be used in varied weather and lighting, in built-up areas and other terrain, and during offensive or defensive operations.
The Army also required a weapon usable while wearing combat equipment, with manageable carrying and logistics demands. The announcement did not specify the number ordered or a delivery completion date.
