The AT4 is now one of the most commonly used light anti-tank weapons in service around the globe.
In U.S. military service it is designated the M136 AT4.
In the 1980s, development began on the Minimans replacement, which became the AT4.
The AT4 has proven itself to be a powerful portable anti-tank weapon. Photo: Spc. Michelle U. Blesam, U.S. Army
To address that fact, a special variant, the AT4-CS (confined space) version has been introduced.
It reportedly utilizes a saltwater countermass to absorb the backblast and to slow down the pressure wave.
Currently, U.S. military forces are adopting the AT4 CS variant.
As an open-ground weapon, the AT4 is well-suited to the wooded terrain of the Donbas region of Eastern Ukraine.
It has also made appearances in a number of TV shows includingStargate: SG-1,RevolutionandFalling Skies.
The reports suggested that the rocket launchers didnt have the technical parts it needed to actually discharge a projectile.
Neither had rockets with them.
Prior to the adoption of the AT4, the primary portable rocket launcher used by U.S. forces was the M72. In this photo, a U.S. Marine carries an M72 on his shoulder while on patrol in Vietnam.
What was missing from the stories is that these are single-shot/disposable weapons.
In other words, once fired, theyre essentially just fiberglass/plastic tubes.
Images were even shared on social media of the AT4 for full effect.
Spc. Alex Raske (left) and Pfc. Phillip Nelson get familiar with the M136 AT4 anti-tank weapon during practice for the Expert Infantryman Badge. Photo: SSgt. Mike Pryor U.S.A.
That could certainly fall into the category of irresponsible reporting, as it isnt true.
How this passed editors and fact-checkers is simply amazing.
Can You Own an AT4?
Sgt. Brendan Seiber fires an AT4 Anti-tank weapon at a range located in the Vaziani Training Area near Tbilisi, Georgia. Photo: Sgt. Brendan Seiber
The short answer: yes.
Obviously, it goes without saying that there is no such thing as a legal live AT4.
A fired tube is as noted, just a plastic tube.
SSgt Glen Chaunley demonstrates the proper method for firing an M72 light anti-tank weapon during a training exercise. The LAW would be replaced not long after this photo. Photo: A1C Reedy U.S.A.F
In addition, common sense should be applied regarding how an AT4 is displayed.
A cloud of smoke and dust envelopes SSgt. Michael Mullahy seconds after he fired an AT4 rocket launcher at an insurgent position during a firefight in Baghdad’s Adhamiyah neighborhood. Photo: Sgt. Mike Pryor
America’s favorite vampire slayer, Sarah Michelle Geller, was ready to do some monster slaying with the AT4. Photo courtesy of Mutant Enemy
The AT4 is an effective anti-tank weapon, but it produces a considerable backblast. It is best used in open ground.
A straightforward-to-use weapon, the AT4 even has its instructions printed on the side. Still, most military users would ensure troops are adequately trained in its operation.
The one-shot disposable anti-tank weapon is fired via a thumb trigger. All of the steps necessary to fire the weapon are clearly indicated on the AT4 tube.
