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Milkor MGL
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The Milkor MGL (Multiple Grenade Launcher) is a lightweight 40 mm six-shot revolver-type grenade launcher (variations also fire 37/38mm) developed and manufactured in South Africa by Milkor (Pty) Ltd. The MGL was demonstrated as a concept to the South African Defence Force (SADF) in 1981. The MGL was then officially accepted into service with the SADF as the Y2. After its introduction in 1983, the MGL was gradually adopted by the armed forces and law enforcement organizations of over 50 countries. Total production since 1983 has been more than 50,000 units.
Key Information
The MGL is a multiple-shot weapon, intended to significantly increase a small squad's firepower when compared to traditional single-shot grenade launchers like the M203. The MGL is designed to be simple, rugged, and reliable. It uses the well-proven revolver principle to achieve a high rate of accurate fire which can be rapidly brought to bear on a target.
A variety of rounds such as HE, HEAT, anti-riot baton, irritant, and pyrotechnic can be loaded, then fired as fast as the trigger can be pulled. The cylinder can be loaded or unloaded rapidly to maintain a high rate of fire. Although intended primarily for offensive and defensive use with high-explosive rounds, with appropriate ammunition the launcher is suitable for anti-riot and other security operations. A newly patented modification allows the MGL to fire less lethal (very low pressure) rounds.
Design
[edit]Operating mechanism
[edit]The MGL is a low-velocity, shoulder-fired 40 mm grenade launcher with a six-round spring-driven revolver-style magazine capable of accepting most 40×46mm grenades. The spring-driven cylinder rotates automatically while firing, but it must be wound back up after every reloading.
Features
[edit]The MGL grenade launcher consists of a lightweight, progressively rifled steel barrel, sight assembly, frame with firing mechanism, spring-actuated revolving cylinder magazine, and a folding stock. The weapon has a fire selector safety switch just above the rear pistol grip which can be operated from either side. The launcher cannot be accidentally discharged if dropped. The launcher is loaded by releasing the cylinder axis pin and swinging the steel frame away from the cylinder.
The rear of the cylinder (including the pistol grip) is unlatched and pivoted counter-clockwise to expose the chambers during reloading. By inserting the fingers into the empty chambers and rotating the aluminium cylinder it is then wound against its driving spring. The grenades are then inserted into the chambers, one-by-one (because the cylinder cannot be removed), the frame closed, and the axis pin re-engaged to lock.
When the trigger is pressed a double-action takes place and the firing pin is cocked and released to fire the grenade. Gas pressure on a piston unlocks the cylinder and allows the spring to rotate it until the next chamber is aligned with the firing pin, whereupon the next round can be fired. If a misfire occurs the trigger can be pulled repeatedly.
Sights
[edit]The Y2, amongst other models, is equipped with the Armson Occluded Eye Gunsight (OEG),[3] a collimator sight which provides a single aiming post. The shooter aims with both eyes open and the post is superimposed onto the target, both being in focus. The OEG on the Y2 is designed as an aid to range estimation, the post being equal to the height of a man at 200 m (660 ft). It is also fitted with tritium illumination for low light operation which has a life of at least ten years. The range quadrant is graduated in 25 m (82 ft) increments.
Accessories
[edit]Each MGL is supplied with a sling, cleaning kit, and user's manual.[4]
Variants
[edit]Several upgrades were made to the original design in the last decade. After over 12 years of production, and more than a decade of user feedback from different countries around the world, it became evident that a redesign of some component groups would make the weapon even more user-friendly and reliable while also simplifying maintenance. This development, known as the MGL Mk-1 was introduced to the market in 1996. All weapons previously supplied can be upgraded to the Mk 1 configuration. Parts, such as the steel barrel, are interchangeable with a minimum of workshop modifications involving a few special tools and cutting dies.
Two "product improved" variants were introduced in 2004. The first is the Mk 1S, which replaces the aluminum frame of the Mk 1 with a stronger stainless steel body, a conventional trigger unit, and Picatinny rail support at the top, sides and bottom of the forend. The second variant is the Mk 1L, with the same features as the Mk 1S, but with a 140 mm (5.5 in) long cylinder to fit special-purpose grenades such as tear gas canisters and less-lethal impact rounds that are too long to fit in the other models' shorter cylinder. The Mk 1L also features a sliding buttstock.[5]


In 2006, the Milkor 37/38mm Multiple Anti-Riot (MAR) replaced the 40mm less-lethal Yima. The MAR is largely identical to other MGL models, but is adapted to fire standard 37/38mm less-lethal riot control rounds available today.[5]
The Milkor SuperSix MRGL (Multi-range Grenade Launcher) was developed in 2012 and features a new recoil reduction system, redesigned stock, strengthened construction and new optics.[5] The SuperSix MRGL is capable of firing a wide range of low velocity (LV) and medium velocity (MV) munitions, which enables the user to engage a wider range of targets than possible with previous launchers, with a maximum range of 800 to 1,200 m (2,600 to 3,900 ft).[6] Rounds can be fired in rapid succession of six rounds in less than 3 seconds (operator dependent) and has a standard six-shot area coverage of at least 20 m × 60 m (66 ft × 197 ft).[7]
Milkor USA
[edit]Milkor USA, Inc. is an American company that produces copies of the Milkor MGL. Milkor (Pty) Ltd has no affiliation or working relationship with Milkor USA.[2]
Milkor USA previously produced the Mk 1S as the MGL-105, and the Mk 1L as the MGL-140, both referring to their respective chamber lengths.
In 2005, the United States Marine Corps procured 200 MGL-140s, designated as the "M32 Multi-shot Grenade Launcher" (M32 MGL or M32 MSGL). They were initially field tested in 2006. The M32 is equipped with the M2A1 reflex sight, a AAA battery–powered sight with infrared settings for night operations. Its elevation adjusts in 25 m (82 ft) increments and compensates for drift, and its casing features a Picatinny rail on top.[8][9]

In 2014, Milkor USA dropped the MGL-105 and MGL-140, and introduced a shorter-barreled variant, the M32A1.[10][11] Despite the shorter barrel (8 in (20 cm) instead of 12 in (30 cm)), it weighs the same as the M32, because its receiver, stock and other parts of the weapon were strengthened, in anticipation of higher pressure medium velocity rounds sought by United States Special Operations Command. The M32A1 has been adopted by the U.S. Marine Corps as the M32A1 Multi-shot Grenade Launcher, and by USSOCOM as the Mk 14 Mod 0.[8]
Users
[edit]
See also
[edit]- Hawk MM-1 – (United States)
- RG-6 grenade launcher – (Russia, Soviet Union)
- RGP-40 – (Poland)
- Brügger & Thomet GL06 – (Switzerland)
References
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- ^ "The South African Connection: The MGL in the Americas". www.smallarmsreview.com. 5 February 2008. Retrieved 3 February 2021.
- ^ Malaysia Army Weapon Systems Handbook Volume 1 Strategic Information and Weapon Systems. Lulu.com / IBP Inc. ISBN 978-1-4330-6180-6.
- ^ a b c "Modern Firearms - Milkor MGL". 28 October 2010. Archived from the original on 30 December 2014. Retrieved 23 November 2014.
- ^ Martin, Guy (19 July 2013). "Milkor showcasing new products". Archived from the original on 25 June 2014. Retrieved 23 November 2014.
- ^ "Milkor SuperSix". Archived from the original on 1 November 2013.
- ^ a b c Pike, John. "M32 Multi-Shot Grenade Launcher Mk 14 Multi-Shot Grenade Launcher". Archived from the original on 28 January 2015. Retrieved 23 November 2014.
- ^ "Acoratex Catalogo 2008" (PDF) (in Spanish). p. 17. Archived from the original on 1 April 2010.
- ^ "Milkor USA website as of 12 Jan 2014". Archived from the original on 12 January 2014. Retrieved 11 July 2016.
- ^ "Milkor USA website as of 7 Feb 2014". Archived from the original on 7 February 2014. Retrieved 11 July 2016.
- ^ "Made in Azerbaijan: RBG - револьверный "решала" широкого профиля/ФОТО".
- ^ Rottman, Gordon L. (21 September 2017). US Grenade Launchers: M79, M203, and M320. Osprey Publishing. p. 37. ISBN 978-1-4728-1952-9. Archived from the original on 22 December 2017. Retrieved 21 December 2017.
- ^ "Brazilian Army". Archived from the original on 22 February 2009.
- ^ Touchard, Laurent (17 December 2013). "Centrafrique : le Soudan a-t-il armé les ex-Séléka ?". Jeune Afrique (in French). Archived from the original on 30 January 2019. Retrieved 29 January 2019.
- ^ "Grenade Launcher MGL" (in Spanish). Indumil. Archived from the original on 7 July 2011. Retrieved 9 February 2012.
- ^ a b c Jones, Richard D. (27 January 2009). Jane's Infantry Weapons 2009/2010 (35th ed.). Jane's Information Group. ISBN 978-0-7106-2869-5.
- ^ "Metallic d.o.o Brochure" (PDF). Metallic d.o.o. Archived from the original (PDF) on 10 September 2011. Retrieved 9 February 2012.
- ^ "Hærens Militærpoliti (Army Military Police)" (PDF). Archived (PDF) from the original on 4 March 2016. Retrieved 14 February 2016.
- ^ "Armament of the Georgian Army". Archived from the original on 6 October 2014. Retrieved 23 November 2014.
- ^ "Multi Grenade Launcher 40 mm". Ordnance Factory Board. Archived from the original on 29 February 2012. Retrieved 14 February 2012.
- ^ "M32 MGL (Multiple Grenade Launcher) Six-Shot Grenade Launcher Specifications and Pictures". www.militaryfactory.com. Retrieved 29 March 2024.
- ^ "MGL". Archived from the original on 23 February 2015. Retrieved 26 January 2013.
- ^ "40mm Revolver Grenade Launcher Acquisition Project of the Philippine Army".
- ^ "USMC's New M-32s/ MSGLs: Hitting the Field". Archived from the original on 21 March 2015. Retrieved 5 May 2015.
- ^ "Arming Rwanda: The Arms Trade and Human Rights, Abuses in the Rwandan War" (PDF). Human Rights Watch Arms Project. Vol. 6, no. 1. January 1994. pp. 16, 21. Archived (PDF) from the original on 18 March 2016. Retrieved 7 December 2018.
- ^ "home". Army.mil.za. 13 December 2010. Archived from the original on 27 December 2014. Retrieved 26 February 2013.
- ^ 2015부산국제조선해양대제전 국제 해양 방위산업전. Flickr (in Korean). 20 October 2015. Archived from the original on 25 June 2016. Retrieved 8 April 2016.
- ^ Marks, Tom (January 1990). "Professionals In Paradise". Soldier of Fortune. Soldier of Fortune.
- ^ SoldF.com. "Försöksvapen: Multi Grenade Launcher 40" (in Swedish). Archived from the original on 15 July 2017. Retrieved 13 March 2017.
- ^ 圖文:攻堅利器 (in Chinese). Archived from the original on 28 July 2011.
- ^ "Royal Thai Navy Inventory". Archived from the original on 17 October 2011.
- ^ "MKEK - Makina ve Kimya Endüstrisi Kurumu". Archived from the original on 1 February 2016. Retrieved 23 November 2014.
- ^ "SLAHLAR". Archived from the original on 14 December 2014. Retrieved 23 November 2014.
- ^ "Січеславські десантники продовжують знищувати російських окупантів на Донецькому напрямку (відео) Воїни 25 окрема..." (in Ukrainian). Командування Десантно-штурмових військ Збройних Сил України. 6 June 2022. Retrieved 6 June 2022.
- ^ "Marines Get New Six-Shot 40mm Grenade Launcher: Meet the M32 MGL". Defense Review. 17 March 2006. Archived from the original on 2 March 2013. Retrieved 26 February 2013.
- ^ "Viện Vũ khí thuộc Tổng cục Công nghiệp Quốc phòng Việt Nam đã chế tạo thành công súng phòng lựu cỡ 40mm" (in Vietnamese). Dat Viet. 29 January 2012. Archived from the original on 3 February 2012. Retrieved 9 February 2012.
- ^ "[Indo Defense 2018] Vietnamese Small Arms Part One: Lee Enfield's, M79's, and Bizon's -". 29 November 2018. Archived from the original on 1 December 2018. Retrieved 10 December 2018.
External links
[edit]Milkor MGL
View on GrokipediaDevelopment
Origins
The development of the Milkor MGL was initiated by Milkor (Pty) Ltd in Cape Town, South Africa, during the early 1980s amid the South African Border War (1966–1990), a protracted counterinsurgency conflict that highlighted the limitations of single-shot grenade launchers in providing sustained suppressive fire for infantry units.[8][9] The war's demands for enhanced firepower in rugged border regions prompted the company to pursue a revolutionary multi-shot design, aiming to bridge the gap between handheld portability and the rapid delivery of multiple 40 mm grenades. The first prototype of the MGL emerged in 1981, crafted by Milkor's engineering team and drawing direct inspiration from revolver cylinder mechanisms—similar to those in handguns—and the proven but limited single-shot M79 grenade launcher already in South African Defence Force (SADF) service.[10][11] This revolver-style approach allowed for a compact, reloadable six-round capacity, addressing the tactical need for volley fire without the bulk of crew-served systems. The design prioritized simplicity and durability, reflecting the operational realities of the Border War.[12] Initial testing of the prototype occurred between 1981 and 1982, with a strong emphasis on performance in extreme African conditions, including high temperatures, dust-laden environments, and rough terrain typical of the Angolan and Namibian borders.[12] These trials validated the launcher's mechanical reliability and firing sequence under combat-like stress, leading to its formal qualification as the "Y2" model by Armscor, South Africa's state arms manufacturer, in 1983. This milestone established the MGL as the world's first mass-produced handheld multi-shot 40 mm grenade launcher, ready for SADF integration.[2][10]Production and adoption
Full-scale production of the Milkor MGL commenced in 1983 at Milkor's manufacturing facility in South Africa, following the company's establishment in 1981 and initial development of the weapon.[2][13] The grenade launcher was rapidly adopted by the South African Defence Force (SADF) that same year, serving as a key asset during the Border War, particularly in operations across Angola where its multi-shot capability enhanced squad-level firepower against insurgent forces.[12][14][15] Production of the original Y2 model ran until 1996, amid the transition from apartheid and associated international arms embargoes that restricted exports, with cumulative output reaching into the tens of thousands of units by the mid-1990s.[16][12] Following the end of apartheid in 1994 and the lifting of many sanctions, production resumed under updated export controls, enabling Milkor to become a prominent international exporter of the MGL to more than 50 countries worldwide, with total manufacturing exceeding 50,000 units since inception.[12]Design
Operating mechanism
The Milkor MGL employs a revolver-type operating mechanism centered on a six-round cylinder that rotates around a central axis, enabling the launcher to deliver multiple 40×46 mm low-velocity grenades in quick succession. The system utilizes a double-action trigger, where pulling the trigger cocks the internal hammer and simultaneously advances the spring-tensioned cylinder to align the next chamber with the fixed barrel, allowing sequential firing without manual intervention between shots. This spring-driven rotation is tensioned manually by the operator during reloading, ensuring reliable indexing without reliance on gas operation in the original Mk 1 design. The barrel features progressive rifling with a final twist rate of 1:1200 mm to stabilize the grenades in flight.[17] To reload, the operator releases a locking lever behind the cylinder, swinging the entire rear frame assembly (including the cylinder and pistol grip) sideways around a top-mounted pivot strut to expose all six chambers simultaneously for rapid insertion of grenades, either individually or via a dedicated speedloader. Spent casings remain in the chambers after firing and must be manually extracted by hand or with an accessory tool once the assembly is opened, as there is no automatic ejection system; the design prioritizes simplicity and durability over powered extraction.[2] The firing sequence begins with the double-action trigger pull, which releases the hammer to strike a fixed firing pin that impacts the primer of the loaded grenade cartridge, igniting the propellant and propelling the grenade down the rifled barrel. If a misfire occurs, the mechanism does not advance the cylinder automatically, permitting a second trigger pull on the same chamber without unloading. Integrated safety features include a manual safety lever positioned above the pistol grip that blocks trigger movement to prevent accidental discharge, along with a half-cock notch on the hammer for safe transportation when loaded.[2]Key features
The Milkor MGL features a lightweight construction primarily utilizing an aluminum alloy frame in its early Mk 1 model, which contributes to its portability and ease of handling in various operational environments.[18] Later variants, such as the Mk 1S, incorporate a stainless steel frame for enhanced strength while maintaining a relatively low weight of approximately 5.9 kg unloaded.[2] The cylinder is constructed from durable stainless steel, providing corrosion resistance essential for prolonged exposure to harsh field conditions, including humidity and saltwater environments common in military deployments.[2] Ergonomic design elements enhance the MGL's usability for individual operators, including an integrated pistol grip that allows for stable one-handed aiming and control during firing sequences.[19] A folding or collapsible stock further improves handling by enabling compact storage and shoulder-mounted firing, reducing operator fatigue in extended engagements and facilitating maneuverability in confined spaces.[20] The launcher incorporates ambidextrous controls to support operators of varying handedness, featuring a safety selector that can be easily engaged from either side.[21] Additional controls include a double-action trigger mechanism with a selector for semi-automatic operation and a straightforward cylinder release for rapid reloading, promoting intuitive use without extensive training.[2] A modular rail system, such as the Picatinny or KeyMod rails introduced in improved models like the M32A1 and MGL-LTL, forms a foundational aspect of the design, allowing attachment of various optics and accessories to customize the weapon for specific missions.[22] This versatility distinguishes the MGL from single-shot launchers like the M79, enabling sustained fire capability with six rounds in quick succession while supporting modular enhancements for enhanced tactical flexibility.[20]Sights and accessories
The Milkor MGL is equipped with standard open iron sights, featuring a fixed front post and an adjustable rear leaf sight that allows for elevation adjustments in increments up to 400 meters for low-velocity 40mm grenades.[19] These iron sights provide a reliable backup aiming system for close to medium-range engagements when optical systems are not mounted.[23] Many variants include an optional Picatinny rail (MIL-STD-1913) mounted on top of the receiver, enabling the attachment of modern optics such as red dot sights like the Vortex Venom, holographic sights, or night vision devices for improved accuracy in low-light conditions.[21][24] The rail system also supports the Milkor OEG sight, a robust collimating reflex optic designed for quick target acquisition on grenade launchers and assault rifles.[1] Compatible accessories enhance the MGL's versatility and user control, including vertical foregrips and laser aimers that attach via the integrated KeyMod or Picatinny rail forends to improve handling during rapid fire sequences.[22][21] Bipods can likewise be mounted on the rail system to provide stability for sustained or precise firing positions.[21] Less-lethal variants of the MGL family, such as the MGL-LTL chambered in 40 mm for low-velocity riot control rounds (including tear gas and impact munitions compatible with the Mk 1L's longer cylinder), and a dedicated 37/38 mm multi-shot configuration, maintain the standard rail interface for optics and accessories like lights or grips. The Stopper is a separate single-shot less-lethal launcher available in 37/38 mm or 40 mm.[25][26]Specifications
Physical characteristics
The Milkor MGL is designed as a lightweight and portable multi-shot grenade launcher, emphasizing ease of carry and maneuverability in various operational environments. Its physical dimensions and weight are optimized for infantry use, allowing for quick deployment without excessive bulk. Key physical specifications of the standard MK1 model include the following:| Characteristic | Specification |
|---|---|
| Overall length (stock extended) | 778 mm (30.6 in) |
| Overall length (stock folded) | 565 mm (22.2 in) |
| Barrel length | 300 mm (11.8 in), rifled |
| Weight (empty) | 5.3 kg (11.7 lb) |
| Cylinder capacity | 6 rounds of 40×46 mm low-velocity grenades |
Performance parameters
The Milkor MGL delivers a muzzle velocity of 76 m/s (250 ft/s) when firing standard 40x46mm high-explosive grenades, balancing projectile propulsion with operator control in close- to medium-range engagements. Its effective range extends to 400 m for point targets, while the maximum range reaches 400 m for area targets when elevated at the appropriate angle, enabling versatile suppression and area denial capabilities.[2] The weapon supports a sustained rate of fire of 18–21 rounds per minute, with burst rates up to three rounds per second facilitated by the double-action trigger mechanism; the six-round revolving cylinder influences overall firing tempo by necessitating periodic reloads after each full load.[2] Recoil remains low owing to the substantial mass of the 40x46mm grenade and the launcher's robust construction, permitting precise follow-up shots with negligible muzzle climb even during bursts.[2]Variants
Early models
The original Milkor MGL was demonstrated as a concept to the South African Defence Force (SADF) in 1981 and entered production in 1983, featuring a robust steel frame design that weighed approximately 5.3 kg unloaded. Developed during the apartheid era, this initial version was primarily produced for SADF use, including adoption during the South African Border War.[2][11][8] Production of the original steel-frame MGL continued until 1996, with several thousand units manufactured before the introduction of significant upgrades. Over 50,000 units of the MGL family have been produced to date.[28][2] These early launchers provided enhanced firepower over single-shot alternatives like the M79, using a revolving six-shot cylinder chambered for 40x46mm low-velocity grenades.[28][2] The MGL Mk1, introduced in 1996, marked the first major refinement to the early lineup, replacing the steel frame with an aluminum alloy construction to reduce unloaded weight to 5.3 kg while incorporating an improved cylinder latch for easier reloading and greater durability. This variant maintained compatibility with 40x46mm ammunition but addressed user feedback on weight and handling from field experience.[8][28] Initial exports of these early models were directed to select African nations in the late 1980s and 1990s, limited by international sanctions on South Africa and restricted to 40x46mm high-explosive rounds to comply with export regulations. Such shipments supported allied forces in regional conflicts but remained modest in scale compared to later global distribution.[2][8]Improved international variants
The improved international variants of the Milkor MGL, developed following the initial Mk1 models, focus on enhanced ergonomics, ammunition compatibility, and adaptability for diverse operational environments outside the US market. These evolutions incorporate modern materials and features to improve user handling, firepower delivery, and integration with allied systems, while maintaining the core revolver mechanism for reliable multi-shot performance. The MGL SuperSix, introduced in the 2000s, represents a significant upgrade with a polymer frame for reduced weight—approximately 5.3 kg empty—and an adjustable buttstock featuring recoil dampening for improved ergonomics and accuracy during sustained use. It supports firing of 40mm low- and medium-velocity NATO-standard ammunition, with effective ranges up to 800 meters depending on the round, and includes a Picatinny rail system compliant with STANAG 4694 for optics and accessories. The design's robust construction allows for rapid succession of shots in battlefield conditions, enhancing its utility for military forces seeking lightweight, versatile grenade launchers.[29][30][31] The MGL-140 (also known as the Mk1-L) features a longer 140 mm cylinder (while retaining the standard barrel length) to accommodate extended-range and medium-velocity 40mm grenades, achieving muzzle velocities of up to 115 m/s for greater projectile reach and impact in close-quarters scenarios. This variant's six-round capacity and semi-automatic action enable coverage of areas up to 20 m x 60 m in under three seconds, making it ideal for urban operations where quick, suppressive fire is essential against threats in confined spaces.[2][32][33] For non-lethal roles, the MGL-405 variant adapts the platform for 37 mm and 38 mm munitions, incorporating a shorter barrel to optimize handling for law enforcement in riot control and crowd management situations. This configuration fires less-lethal rounds like impact projectiles and irritants, prioritizing safety and compliance with international policing standards while retaining the multi-shot revolver design for efficient deployment.[2][34] These variants have been exported to over 67 countries, including multiple NATO members, with customizations such as ambidextrous safety selectors and modular rails to align with alliance interoperability requirements. Such adaptations ensure seamless integration into coalition forces, bolstering the MGL's global adoption for both lethal and less-lethal applications.[1][35][21]Milkor USA models
Milkor USA, Inc., a U.S.-based manufacturer located in Tucson, Arizona, holds the license for producing variants of the Milkor MGL tailored to American military specifications. Established to supply the U.S. Department of Defense, the company began production in the mid-2000s, with initial contracts supporting fielding to U.S. forces as early as 2006.[36][5] These models incorporate design modifications for improved reliability and integration with U.S. equipment standards, distinguishing them from the original South African design. The M32, developed in the 2000s, represents the initial U.S. production model and features a lightweight construction weighing approximately 5.8 kg unloaded, achieved through the use of polymer components in non-critical areas such as the stock and handguards.[37][38] Adopted by U.S. Special Operations Command for its rapid-fire capability in close-quarters engagements, the M32 utilizes a six-shot revolving cylinder and maintains compatibility with standard 40×46 mm low-velocity grenades.[39] It was field-tested in operational environments like Iraq, where its durability proved effective against harsh conditions.[37] The M32A1, introduced in 2012, serves as an upgraded variant specifically for the U.S. Marine Corps, featuring MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny rails on the receiver and forend for mounting optics such as the M2A1 reflex sight, along with an improved trigger mechanism for enhanced ergonomics and safety.[40][7] Weighing about 7.0 kg unloaded due to reinforced components, including a more robust cylinder assembly, the M32A1 underwent extensive testing for environmental resilience, including salt fog and drop tests, earning certification as a "weapon of record" for the U.S. Marine Corps and Department of Defense.[7][3] Key enhancements focus on operational reliability in desert and arid theaters, such as those encountered in Iraq and Afghanistan, with features like sealed mechanisms to mitigate dust ingress.[6] By 2010, Milkor USA secured a significant indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract valued at $42.2 million to supply M32 and M32A1 units, supporting widespread distribution to U.S. special operations and Marine Corps elements.[3] These models emphasize modularity and safety, with the M32A1's design allowing compatibility with advanced munitions while prioritizing user protection through rigorous explosive safety evaluations.[7]Operators
Primary military users
The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) serves as the original primary user of the Milkor MGL, adopting it in 1983 as the Y2 grenade launcher following its development for the South African Defence Force. The weapon has seen extensive use in post-apartheid peacekeeping missions, including deployments in Africa.[12][41][10] The United States Armed Forces adopted the M32A1 variant through the US Marine Corps and Special Operations Command (SOCOM) starting in 2005, procuring approximately 9,000 units for the USMC and an additional 230 units for SOCOM for combat roles in Iraq and Afghanistan, where it provided enhanced squad-level firepower in urban and counter-insurgency environments.[3][36][42]Other military and law enforcement users
The Indian Armed Forces adopted the Milkor MGL in the 1990s for border security operations, licensed-produced by the Ordnance Factory Tiruchirappalli, with many configured for less-lethal applications to support non-lethal crowd control and perimeter defense.[43][44] The French Gendarmerie and military have utilized the MGL since the 2000s, particularly in overseas territories for rapid response and area denial.[45][46] Post-1994 exports have supplied various African nations for counter-terrorism operations, enabling small units to deliver high-volume suppressive fire in asymmetric conflicts. Known users include Rwanda (70 units acquired in 1992).[47] Other military users include the Brazilian Army; Danish Royal Danish Army, Military Police, and Jaeger Corps (Y2 variant); Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force (M32A1); Pakistani Army and Special Services Group; Philippine Army and Marine Corps; Turkish Army and Gendarmerie General Command (locally produced by MKEK); and Ukrainian Air Assault Forces (M32A1). In law enforcement contexts, the Milkor MGL has been adopted by US SWAT teams and international police units, including Brazil's BOPE, often with 37mm adaptations for riot control and hostage rescue scenarios, prioritizing less-lethal munitions to minimize casualties in urban environments.[1][48]References
- https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Milkor_MGL_in_French_service.jpg