In the world of infantry weapons and anti-tank systems, very few designs remain relevant decades after their introduction. Usually, advances in armored vehicle protection quickly render older launchers obsolete, forcing engineers to develop entirely new generations of weapons. Yet there are exceptions. One of them is the Soviet RPG-29 “Vampir” — a rocket-propelled grenade launcher that first appeared during the Cold War but is still regarded as one of the most powerful shoulder-fired anti-tank weapons in the world.
At the World Defense Show 2026 in Riyadh, Russia unveiled a deeply modernized version of the system: the RPG-29M. The new launcher retains the formidable firepower of its predecessor while incorporating modern sighting systems, an expanded range of ammunition, and improved ergonomics.
In essence, this is not a completely new weapon. Rather, it is an effort to adapt a proven battlefield system to the realities of modern warfare.
A Child of the Cold War
The story of the RPG-29 began in the late 1970s.
At the time, Soviet military planners were becoming increasingly concerned about the growing protection levels of Western main battle tanks. Composite armor and the first generations of explosive reactive armor were beginning to appear, and existing launchers such as the RPG-7 were no longer considered sufficient against future threats.
Development of a new anti-tank weapon was entrusted to the Bazalt design bureau. The goal was straightforward: create a launcher capable of defeating next-generation NATO tanks at ranges beyond those achievable by most existing infantry anti-tank weapons.
The result was the RPG-29, which entered service in the late 1980s.
Unlike many shoulder-fired systems of the era, it employed a powerful 105 mm tandem-charge warhead specifically designed to penetrate reactive armor before striking the main armor underneath.
How the “Vampir” Became a Legend
The RPG-29 earned its reputation after the collapse of the Soviet Union.
During conflicts in the Middle East, the launcher repeatedly demonstrated its ability to damage or destroy modern armored vehicles. Its most famous appearance came during the 2006 Lebanon War, when several Israeli Merkava tanks suffered significant damage from RPG-29 attacks.
After that, military analysts around the world began paying close attention.
The reason for its popularity was simple. Unlike expensive anti-tank guided missile systems, the RPG-29 remained relatively inexpensive and easy to operate while still offering impressive armor penetration.
For many armies and irregular forces, that combination proved highly attractive.
What Has Changed in the RPG-29M?
Despite the age of the original design, the basic concept remains effective.
As a result, modernization efforts focused less on the launcher itself and more on improving its battlefield effectiveness.
The most important upgrade is the ability to integrate modern fire-control and sighting systems. The RPG-29M can now employ advanced optical sights, thermal imaging devices, and electronic fire-control systems equipped with ballistic computers.
According to the developers, these improvements effectively double the launcher’s practical engagement range compared to the original version.
Another significant change is weight reduction, improving operator mobility and making the weapon easier to handle in urban combat and difficult terrain.
More Than Just an Anti-Tank Weapon
Modern conflicts have shown that anti-tank launchers are increasingly used against a wide variety of targets.
For that reason, developers significantly expanded the available ammunition types.
In addition to the upgraded PG-29VM tandem anti-tank round, the RPG-29M can fire:
- TBG-29VM thermobaric rounds;
- MG-29V multi-purpose munitions;
- incendiary warheads;
- cluster-type ammunition;
- fragmentation and anti-personnel projectiles.
This effectively transforms the RPG-29M into a versatile infantry support weapon capable of engaging armored vehicles, fortifications, enemy personnel, and field defenses.
Thermobaric ammunition is particularly relevant today, as it often proves more effective than conventional anti-tank warheads when used against buildings, bunkers, and fortified positions.
A Practical Alternative in the Age of Expensive Missiles
Recent years have revealed an interesting trend.
While armies continue to invest heavily in advanced anti-tank guided missile systems such as Javelin, Spike, and Kornet, there remains strong demand for simpler and more affordable infantry anti-tank weapons.
The RPG-29M occupies a niche between traditional rocket launchers and expensive guided missile systems.
Its combination of high firepower, extended range, and versatile ammunition makes it attractive to countries seeking effective close-range anti-armor capabilities without committing to costly missile inventories.
That is precisely why its debut in Riyadh makes strategic sense. The Middle East remains one of the world’s largest markets for anti-tank weaponry, and the reputation of the RPG-29 family continues to serve as one of the strongest selling points for the Russian defense industry.
RPG-29M Technical Specifications
Type: Shoulder-fired anti-tank grenade launcher
Caliber: 105 mm
Available Ammunition:
- PG-29VM tandem anti-tank round;
- TBG-29VM thermobaric round;
- MG-29V multi-purpose munition;
- specialized warhead variants.
Sighting Systems:
- optical sights;
- thermal imaging systems;
- electronic ballistic computer.
Primary Roles:
- anti-tank warfare;
- destruction of armored vehicles;
- neutralization of fortifications;
- infantry fire support;
- engagement of enemy personnel.
Nearly four decades after the original RPG-29 entered service, its story is far from over. The RPG-29M demonstrates that even a Cold War-era weapon can remain relevant when properly adapted to the demands of the modern battlefield.
