Rheinmetall unveiled its new Squad Support Weapon 40 in live firing for the first time. During a trade press event, representatives from various defence media had the opportunity to experience prototypes of the first automatic magazine-fed shoulder-fired grenade launcher for the new 40 mm x 46 medium velocity ammunition.
The SSW40 is designed to bolster the infantry with greater firepower by providing a versatile and at the same time, with a compact weapon. The soldier can handle and operate the weapon in similar fashion to an assault rifle with an operational firing range of up to 900 metres. The SSW40’s airburst capability also makes it suitable for engaging on targets behind cover and for counterattacking drones.
Medium Velocity (MV) ammunition is more powerful than the long-established 40 mm x 46 Low Velocity (LV) ammunition. As a result, MV ammunition has a higher velocity, a longer range and a longer trajectory. Targets can be engaged at ranges of up to 900 metres. Additionally, the MV ammunition can carry a higher payload, further increasing the versatility of the 40 mm ammunition range – including the option of programmable airburst ammunition. Another advantage is that the SSW40 can fire long ammunition types due to its break barrel capability. The MV ammunition bridges the gap to the 40 mm x 53 High Velocity ammunition range, which can only be fired from crew served automatic grenade launchers.
With an empty weight of around four kilograms, a length of approximately 80 centimetres and ambidextrous operation, the SSW40 is extremely ergonomic. Operating the weapon is quickly comprehendible. The main controls are the combined safety and magazine release switch (a customer request), which can be reached with the thumb or index finger of the shooting hand on both sides. The bolt catch on the top of the receiver, the break barrel switch lever in front of the magazine as well as the cocking mechanism in the shoulder stock can be easily operated with either hand. There is also a disassembly switch at the rear of the receiver for field-stripping and disassembly of the weapon.
At the UnterlĂĽĂź test centre, steel plates were set up at distances of 100, 200, 300 and 500 metres for test firing. Also, a wrecked car set up as a target at 250 metres. Equipped with body armour, helmets, safety goggles and ear protection, the participants first fired a single shot from a 40 mm x 46 low-velocity grenade launcher in order to later be able to better compare it with the SSW40. This was followed by two rounds of four shots with the new weapon. Target Practice Marker-Tracer (TPM-T) ammunition was used in both calibres.
Most shooters aimed at the car. But the other targets – including those at 500 metres – also came under fire and were hit. The participants were impressed by the weapon. In terms of ergonomics, it resembled a heavy assault rifle. They also reported unanimously that, despite the higher pressure of the medium-velocity ammunition, there was no difference between the two types of ammunition when firing, thanks to the SSW40’s encapsulated, self-regulating hydropneumatic recoil damping system. An Aimpoint red-dot sight was used for aiming, and the target was easily picked-up. For longer distances, it was at times necessary to slightly adjust the aim in order to hit the target. This was easily achievable for an experienced shooter. The trigger’s well-defined clean break contributed to the weapon’s accuracy.
The SSW40 should be fully qualified by the company in the fourth quarter, and the first customer verification is also expected to be completed by the end of the year.
American Rheinmetall Systems joins American Rheinmetall as unified unit
American Rheinmetall Systems (ARS) announced that it will now operate under the unified name American Rheinmetall, aligning with the company’s broader strategy to streamline operations, enhance collaboration, and deliver greater value to its customers across the defence industry.
This move strengthens American Rheinmetall’s position as a leading U.S. defense partner by integrating the exceptional capabilities of the Biddeford, Maine team into the broader American Rheinmetall enterprise. The change does not impact current contracts, programs, or services secured by American Rheinmetall Systems. Existing customers will continue to receive the same world-class support as part of a more connected, large scale, and capable organisation.
“American Rheinmetall Systems has long been a cornerstone of Rheinmetall’s U.S. operations proudly operating in Maine where we are committed to remaining and growing,” said Matt Warnick, CEO of American Rheinmetall. “ARS has a deep legacy of innovation and expertise that will continue to thrive while new opportunities for synergy and growth will arise for the Biddeford facility as part of the larger American Rheinmetall enterprise.”
With decades of experience in electronic mission systems and components, the Biddeford team supports next-generation modernisation priorities for the U.S. Armed Forces. As a leader in the development and production of crew-served and vehicle-based EO/IR systems, remote weapon station components, airburst ammunition programming units, and counter-UAS solutions, among other technologies, the company adds tremendous value to American Rheinmetall’s growing portfolio.
“Bringing ARS into the core of American Rheinmetall reinforces our commitment to delivering solutions for combat readiness as a prime OEM and Tier 1 supplier focused on Army modernisation and American Manufacturing,” added Jason Atkinson, President of American Rheinmetall.
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